Property Management FAQs
Find answers to common questions about our professional property inventory and management services across Hampshire and West Sussex with our FAQs.
Which areas do you cover for your property services?
We are based in Chichester and cover the whole of Hampshire & West Sussex however, we do try and be flexible. If you are unsure whether your property is within our coverage area, please contact us with the postcode and we'll get back to you.
What is a property inventory report?
It is an independent, detailed document that records the exact cleanliness, condition, and contents of a rental property at a specific point in time. It helps to lower disputes by giving a comparison for the check-out report.
How do I book one or more of your services?
You can book online through our contact us form, email us at bookins@nevillecressyltd.co.uk or phone us on 0800 998 7989.
How far in advance do I need to make a booking?
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially during busy periods. However, we will always do our best to accommodate urgent or last-minute appointments where availability allows.
Do you operate on weekends or evenings?
Yes, we offer weekend and early evening appointments to suit busy schedules, subject to availability and a small out-of-hours premium.
What happens if you are unable to gain access to the property?
If our clerk cannot gain access within 15 minutes of the scheduled time, a cancellation or waiting fee will apply at our discretion.
Why are interim inspections important for landlords?
Interim visits allow us to check the property is being well-maintained and identify any maintenance issues before they become costly. They provide peace of mind that the tenancy is progressing smoothly.
Do you handle key collections?
Yes, we can collect keys from local letting agents, landlord or from a designated key safe at the property for your convenience. Keys are always handled securely and returned the same day after the service.
Will the inventory report hold up in a deposit dispute?
Absolutely. Our reports are independent, detailed, and include high-quality, time-stamped, photographic evidence, meeting the evidence requirements of all major tenancy deposit schemes.
Can you provide floorplans or marketing photos?
Yes, we offer professional marketing photography and accurate 2D/3D floorplans as add-on services or part of a comprehensive management package.
What is included in a check-out report?
We compare the property's current state to the original inventory, noting any damages or cleanliness changes. This report is vital for fair deposit deductions.
How long does it take to receive the finished report?
We aim to deliver all digital reports within 24hours of the site visit. You will receive an email notification as soon as the report is ready for viewing.
Do I need to be present during the inspection?
No, you do not need to be present as long as we have clear instructions on how to collect and return the keys.
How do you handle properties with multiple outbuildings?
We include all accessible garages, sheds, and garden areas in our standard inventory. Large or unique estates may require a custom quote to reflect the additional inspection time required. Price will depend on sizing of property.
Do you test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms?
Yes, we perform a basic test on all accessible alarms during every inventory and check-in visit. The results are clearly documented in the final report.
What details are included for appliances?
We record the make, model, and general cleanliness of all integrated and freestanding appliances. We also check for visible power lights and user manuals are present.
Can you conduct inspections for HMO properties?
Yes, we offer specialized HMO inventory services that cover both communal areas and individual bedrooms. These reports are tailored to meet complex licensing and compliance requirements.
What happens if a property is not ready for the inspection?
If work is still ongoing or the property is not clean, we will contact you immediately. An aborted visit fee may apply if we are unable to perform a professional inspection.
Are your staff insured?
Yes, all our property clerks carry full professional indemnity and public liability insurance for your absolute protection and peace of mind.
Can you identify illegal substances or health hazards?
While not forensic experts, our clerks are trained to note obvious health hazards, structural damp, or signs of prohibited activities and will flag these in your confidential report.
What constitutes fair wear and tear according to your reports?
We follow industry standards to differentiate between normal deterioration due to age and actual damage. This is clearly highlighted in our comparisons to avoid unfair charges.
Can you verify the presence and status of fire safety labels?
Yes, we inspect soft furnishings to ensure they have the required fire safety labels intact. We document findings to help landlords maintain legal compliance.
Do your reports include photographs of every room?
All reports feature high-resolution, time-stamped digital photographs embedded directly alongside the written descriptions of each item or room , along with a close up of any defects.
Are you able to handle large commercial property inventories?
At present we only support residential management.Â
What happens if we need to cancel or reschedule a booking?
We offer free rescheduling with at least 24 hours' notice. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the appointment may incur a late cancellation fee.
How do you handle properties with ongoing maintenance?
We strongly recommend waiting until all maintenance and cleaning are finished before we visit. If we must visit during works, we will document the limitations clearly in your report.
Can tenants add comments or sign the report digitally?
Yes, our digital platform allows tenants to review the document, type their comments, upload supporting photos, and sign electronically.
Do you use specific inventory management software?
Yes, we use a leading industry platform that allows for consistent reporting standards, secure cloud storage, and simple electronic signatures for all parties.
What happens if a tenant disagrees with a report?
Tenants have a standard period (usually 7 days) to add their own comments or photos to the digital report. We will then review any discrepancies to ensure accuracy before the final report.
Do you provide volume discounts for letting agents?
Yes, we have preferential rates for agents with high-volume requirements or exclusive management contracts. Please contact us to discuss a bespoke corporate price list.
What are the landlord's primary obligations for a check-in?
Landlords must ensure the property is professionally cleaned and all utilities are active. Functional smoke and CO alarms are also a mandatory safety requirement.
What are tenant responsibilities regarding the inventory?
Tenants should review the report carefully and flag any discrepancies within the agreed timeframe. Maintaining the property in the condition recorded is key to a smooth check-out.
How does the check-out report affect deposit returns?
The report provides the evidence needed to justify any deductions for damage or cleaning. It acts as a fair arbiter to ensure deposits are returned correctly.
What practical logistics should agents consider?
Agents should ensure we have clear access instructions and all relevant keys. Providing tenant contact details also helps us coordinate check-ins more effectively.
Does the inspection cover loft and cellar spaces?
We inspect these areas if they are safely accessible and include flooring. Non-floored or hazardous spaces are excluded for health and safety reasons.
Are meter readings always included in the report?
Yes, we capture photographic evidence of gas, electric, and water meters whenever they are accessible. This helps prevent billing disputes at the end of tenancies.
How do your reports aid in legal compliance?
Our detailed reporting ensures landlords meet the 'prescribed information' standards required for legal deposit protection. It provides a robust audit trail for every tenancy.
Do you offer empty property inspections?
Yes, we can conduct regular visits to vacant properties to ensure they remain secure and meet insurance requirements. We flag any maintenance or security concerns immediately.
Can you provide bespoke reporting templates?
Yes, we can customize our digital reporting to focus on specific client needs, such as health and safety checks or portfolio-specific maintenance tags.
Do you provide Legionella risk assessment and testing?
Yes we can provide a basic risk assessment insuring legal requirements plus an additional water testing upon request.Â
Contact us for additional details
If you have read our FAQs and have more specific questions regarding the services that Neville Cressy Property Management Ltd provide or need a custom quote, please reach out to our team.