What is the purpose of the inventory of fixtures in a rental?

The purpose of the rental inventory of fixtures is to note the condition of the accommodation and its equipment at two specific times: when the tenant moves in and when they move out. It is a comparative document, essential for determining any damage that occurred during the rental.

In practical terms, the rental inventory of fixtures makes it possible to:

• Prove the initial condition of the accommodation

• Distinguish normal wear and tear from damage attributable to the tenant

• Justify a deduction from the security deposit

• Avoid conflicts at the end of the lease

Without a precise rental inventory of fixtures, the landlord often finds it difficult to assert their rights.

Who must carry out the move-in and move-out inventory of fixtures?

The rental inventory of fixtures must be carried out in a contradictory manner, that is to say in the presence of both parties: the landlord (or their representative) and the tenant.

It can be carried out:

• Directly between the landlord and the tenant

• By a rental management professional

• By a justice commissioner in the event of disagreement

When the inventory of fixtures is entrusted to a professional, the costs can be shared, within the limits provided by law.

The inventory of fixtures as an essential document of the lease agreement

The rental inventory of fixtures is a mandatory appendix to the rental contract. It must be attached to the lease when the keys are handed over or appended as soon as it is completed.

In the absence of a move-in inventory of fixtures, the accommodation is legally presumed to have been handed over in good condition, which can severely penalize the landlord at the end of the rental.

Other mandatory appendices to the rental agreement

In addition to the rental inventory of fixtures, the lease must include:

• The mandatory property diagnostics

• The tenant information notice

• The co-ownership regulations (if applicable)

• The tenant's home insurance certificate

A complete rental file strengthens the legal security of the rental.

How to correctly fill out a rental
inventory of fixtures?

A compliant rental inventory of fixtures must be precise, detailed and objective. It is not enough to indicate vague terms such as "good condition" or "correct".

Every room in the accommodation must be examined:

• Floors (parquet, tiling, carpet)

• Walls and ceilings

• Doors and windows

• Equipment (heating, kitchen, sanitary facilities)

• Water, gas and electricity meters

Practical tips for a precise and indisputable inventory of fixtures

To secure your rental inventory of fixtures:

• Use a structured and detailed template

• Describe each element factually

• Mention all visible defects, even minor ones

• Take dated photos and attach them to the document

• Note meter readings

• Have the inventory of fixtures signed by both parties

A well-completed rental inventory of fixtures is the best protection against disputes.

Absence of an inventory of fixtures: what consequences for the landlord and the tenant?

The absence of a rental inventory of fixtures can have serious consequences, especially for the landlord.

For the landlord:

• Difficulty in proving damage

• Impossibility of retaining part of the security deposit

• Risk of dispute with the tenant

For the tenant:

• Less protection in the event of damaged accommodation upon moving in

• Difficulty in contesting abusive deductions

Role and use of the security deposit at the end of the rental

The security deposit is used to cover:

• Unpaid rent

• Charges remaining due

• Damage noted during the move-out inventory of fixtures

Only the comparison between the move-in inventory of fixtures and the move-out inventory of fixtures legally justifies a deduction. Without a rental inventory of fixtures, the landlord must return the entire deposit, unless proven otherwise.

How to contest a move-out inventory of fixtures?

A move-out inventory of fixtures can be contested by the tenant if they feel it does not reflect reality.

Possible steps:

• Refuse to sign the document

• Add written reservations

• Send a contestation by registered mail

• Involve a justice commissioner

For the landlord, a precise rental inventory of fixtures, accompanied by photos, greatly limits the risks of dispute.

Move-in inventory of fixtures vs move-out inventory of fixtures: what are the differences?

Even though their structure is similar, their role is different.

The move-in inventory of fixtures:

• Notes the initial condition of the accommodation

• Protects the tenant against pre-existing damage

The move-out inventory of fixtures:

• Notes the condition of the accommodation upon departure

• Serves as a basis for the return of the security deposit

Comparing the two inventories of fixtures is essential for fair rental management.

Common mistakes to avoid when conducting an inventory of fixtures

Here are the most common mistakes to avoid during a rental inventory of fixtures:

• Using an incomplete template

• Using descriptions that are too vague

• Forgetting certain rooms or equipment

• Not taking photos

• Carrying out the inventory of fixtures without the tenant

• Modifying the document after signing

These mistakes can cost the landlord dearly and weaken the entire rental management.

Conclusion

The rental inventory of fixtures is an essential legal document, at the heart of the relationship between landlord and tenant. By using a compliant template, filling it out rigorously, and respecting the rules, you secure your property, your security deposit, and your peace of mind.

For even greater peace of mind, many landlords choose to entrust their inventories of fixtures to rental management professionals.