Our advice to prepare the inventory of fixtures before handing over the keys
When you are about to sign a rental agreement with a new tenant, you must establish what is known as an "inventory". This written document is in fact a statement that allows to describe as accurately and accurately as possible the condition of the leased property at the time of the arrival of the tenant; then, again, when the tenant leaves the premises. It is then comparing the state of entry and state of exit places that can be found possible damage. It is therefore very important to establish an inventory of fixtures before handing over the keys, and to do so with care! Explanations.
The inventory, how does it work?
The inventory is a written act that accurately describes the state of housing and all its equipment, room by room. This document is mandatory and must be written at the latest when the tenant enters the accommodation, although it is better to do it a few days before, at the time of handing over the keys, to avoid unpleasant surprises. In general, the document is amicably established between the owner and the tenant . However, it is possible to call a bailiff or a real estate agent, in case of bad agreement. In any case, it must be remembered that the inventory is a contradictory statement, that is to say, it is valid only if both parties - lessor and tenant (s) - have affixed their signature. Thus, this document is as useful for one as for the other, since in the absence of inventory, the tenant can be held responsible for damage to housing, even if it is for nothing . Conversely, the owner can not use the rental guarantee in case of damage if no act has been signed upstream . It is therefore necessary to remain vigilant with this document and fill it with the maximum of clarity not to be trapped at the end of the lease. There are several models of inventory, published by the Ministry of Housing, which you can use keeping in mind that it is generally better to make two separate documents, for entry and exit, for simplicity .
How to establish the state of entry?
Although the law does not lay down precisely the particulars that must appear in the document of the state of entry, the fact remains that certain elements are a priori essential to give a true description of housing. Thus, it is important to include on the statement first basic information such as the type of inventory (entry, exit), the date on which it was established, the name and address of the property. lessor and tenants, and the address of the dwelling . After this information, you have to go to the detailed inventory of the apartment: in the first place, the number of sets of housing keys, then a clear description of the condition of the floors, ceilings and walls. All equipment in each room must also be listed, as well as their operating status. Gas and electricity meter readings can also be noted. Finally, do not hesitate to attach photos to keep proof. To properly establish the inventory, here are some other tips. First of all, make sure to realize the observation in broad daylight, when the electricity is running, so that all equipment can be tested. If the electricity does not work, the tenant may legitimately question the operation of the devices. Do not hesitate to open all closets and drawers and take the time to check every nook with the tenant. Finally, remember that after the beginning of occupation of the premises, the tenant has a few more days during which he has the right to report to the lessor any damage that has not already been noted! In response, the owner may decide to refuse to add the mention of these degradations to the inventory. However, it is advisable to avoid conflicts from the first days of lease, except in cases of proven bad faith ...