Landlords should be aware of the importance of completing an inventory before tenants move in.

Spokesman for the Tenancy Deposit Scheme Malcolm Harrison explained how it is “absolutely vital” that a check list is completed.

“An inventory is not just about what’s in the property; it is also a condition report,” the expert stated.

Mr Harrison described how inventories need to be signed off to show both parties agree with what state a buy-to-let property is in at the start of a rental period.

Landlords are advised completing a checklist will help to reduce the chances of a dispute about the return of the deposit at the end of a tenancy.

A recent survey carried out by Total Landlord Insurance recently revealed 65 per cent of buy-to-let owners conduct their own inventories, which is exposing them to greater risk of disputes.