When Is an Inventory Required?

An inventory checklist is essential for any furnished or semi-furnished property. It lists every item of furniture, appliance, fixture, and fitting provided by the landlord, records its condition at move-in, and is checked again at move-out. Missing or damaged items identified at move-out can be deducted from the deposit — but only if they were properly documented at move-in.

Standard Inventory Categories

Work through the property systematically, recording each item with its description, brand (if applicable), quantity, and condition rating (Excellent / Good / Fair / Poor).

• Living room — sofa, chairs, coffee table, TV unit, curtains/blinds, rugs
• Kitchen — fridge, cooker/oven, microwave, kettle, pots and pans, cutlery, crockery
• Each bedroom — bed frame, mattress, wardrobe, bedside tables, lamps, bedding (if provided)
• Dining area — table, chairs
• Bathroom — shower curtain, towel rails, bathroom cabinet, toilet brush and holder
• General — light fittings, window locks, door handles, smoke alarms, fire extinguisher
• Outdoor — garden furniture, braai/BBQ, dustbins

Photography and Signatures

Photograph every item on the inventory, particularly any that show existing wear or minor damage. Number the photographs to correspond with the inventory list. Both landlord and tenant sign the completed inventory on move-in day. At move-out, repeat the process using the same form. Any item missing from the list or returned in worse condition than recorded can be charged to the tenant — subject to fair wear and tear allowance.