How to do an end of tenancy checkout
- Have your check-in inventory with you. Every deduction should compare the condition now with how it was at the start, so the inventory is your key evidence.
- Do it on the day the tenant leaves, ideally with them there, in daylight, before anyone else goes in.
- Take dated photos of every room, the meters and anything damaged or dirty.
- Allow for fair wear and tear. Faded paint, light carpet wear and small marks from normal living aren't chargeable. Think about the age and condition of an item at check-in and how long the tenant lived there.
- Collect every key and the tenant's forwarding address.
- Tell the suppliers and the council the move-out date and meter readings.
Deposit deductions in England
Write to the tenant with any deductions you're proposing and your evidence, such as photos, the inventory and quotes or invoices. Once you've agreed the amount, the deposit must be returned within 10 days. If you can't agree, the tenancy deposit scheme you used (DPS, mydeposits or TDS) offers a free dispute service, which looks at the evidence from both sides. See GOV.UK: tenancy deposit protection.
Frequently asked questions
What should an end of tenancy checkout include?
Meter readings, keys returned, the condition and cleanliness of each room compared with the check-in inventory, dated photos, any proposed deposit deductions, the tenant's forwarding address and signatures.
Can I deduct for fair wear and tear?
No. Fair wear and tear is the normal decline from everyday use. Deductions should be for damage, missing items, cleaning beyond the check-in standard or unpaid rent, backed by evidence.
Does the tenant have to sign the checkout report?
It helps, but they don't have to. Signing confirms the report is an accurate record of the property on the day. It doesn't mean they agree to any deductions.
Is my information saved?
Only on the device you're using, so you can come back to it. Nothing is sent to LandlordHub. Save a PDF when you've finished.