A new petition has been launched calling for independent inventory reporting to become a compulsory requirement.

The petition, which has been created by the Association of Independent Inventory Clerks (AIIC), aims to encourage the government to consider the benefits of mandatory inventory reporting as part of its plans to increase regulation of the Private Rented Sector.

Alongside the ongoing high-profile consultation on the leasehold and management sector, there is currently a review into improving the quality of the sector being carried out by an all-party Communities & Local Government Select Committee of MPs.

“It’s clear the government is keen to increase regulation and professionalism in the letting sector and we see no reason why mandatory inventory reporting should not be a part of this movement,” said Danny Zane, joint chair of the AIIC.

Compulsory tenancy deposit protection was introduced in 2007, but there has never been any additional legislation concerning the documentary evidence required to enable adjudicators to adequately arbitrate on disputes.

“With this in mind, regulating independent inventories really is a no-brainer for the government,” he continued. “An independent and professionally compiled inventory offers protection to both tenants and landlords and can prove invaluable in the event of a tenancy deposit dispute.” 

Zane added: “We are urging all property professionals, landlords and tenants to sign this petition in order to bring this issue to the government’s attention, which is long overdue.

“We honestly believe that the regulation of impartial, independent inventories as an industry standard would reduce the number of deposit disputes between landlords, tenants and letting agents.

“Adding this measure as a compulsory part of the rental process is only a small step for the government to take and could make a huge difference for renters and private landlords all over the country.

You can view and sign the AIIC’s petition by clicking here.