What Is a Property Condition Report? Your Questions Answered
When letting a property, clarity is everything. For landlords, agents, and tenants alike, misunderstandings around property condition can lead to stress, disputes, and even legal costs.
That’s where a Property Condition Report comes in.
If you’ve ever asked, “Do I really need a condition report before letting?” or “How is it different from an inventory?” — you’re not alone. Many landlords want peace of mind, but aren’t sure what documentation they truly need.
In this post, we’ll walk you through exactly what a property condition report is, why it matters, and how to make sure yours is legally sound and locally compliant.
Why Property Condition Reports Matter for Landlords in South London
Let’s face it — rental properties in areas like Croydon, Orpington, and Bexley move fast. With high turnover and growing tenant demand, landlords can’t afford ambiguity about property condition.
A Property Condition Report is a detailed, room-by-room document that captures the state of the property at a specific point in time — often just before a tenancy begins or building works commence. It typically includes:
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Photographic evidence (walls, ceilings, fittings, floors)
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Notes on wear, damage, and cleanliness
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Overview of fixtures, furnishings, and fittings
Why is this crucial in West Wickham and the surrounding boroughs?
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Local competition is high — letting agents often push fast moves. You need a watertight baseline.
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Deposit scheme compliance demands clear, unbiased documentation.
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Dispute resolution is easier with timestamped visual records accepted by the TDS, DPS, or MyDeposits.
Without it, you're relying on memory — or worse, opinion — in case of a dispute.
What’s Included in a Property Condition Report?
At Fabric Inventories, every report is built for clarity, speed, and legal confidence. Here’s what’s typically included:
1. Structural Overview
We document key aspects of the building such as:
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Walls, ceilings, floors
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Windows, doors, frames
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External condition (if requested)
Each room is photographed and described.
2. Fixtures & Fittings
Includes:
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Light fittings, switches, sockets
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Radiators, boilers, visible plumbing
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Built-in furniture and white goods
We highlight wear, damage, or safety concerns.
3. Cleanliness & Hygiene Standards
We assess:
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General cleanliness
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Presence of mould, damp, or odours
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Cleanliness of appliances and bathrooms
This is essential for both tenant wellbeing and dispute prevention.
4. Compliance Checks Included as Standard
Every report from Fabric Inventories includes essential compliance checks to meet legal requirements and ensure accuracy:
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Smoke alarm verification
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Meter readings (gas, electricity, water)
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Key descriptions and logs
These components are not optional - they are a vital part of every professional property inventory report we deliver, ensuring your rental is protected and fully compliant.
Common Questions About Property Condition Reports
Q. Are condition reports legally required?
Not by law, but they’re highly recommended. Courts and deposit schemes give more weight to independent, third-party reports — especially if they’re time-stamped and visual.
Q. How is a condition report different from an inventory report?
An inventory report lists contents (like furnishings and appliances), while a condition report focuses more on the physical state of the property. At Fabric Inventories, we offer both as part of our tailored packages.
Q. Can I use this for insurance or building works?
Yes. Condition reports are often used before:
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Renovation or refurbishment
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Insurance assessments
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Long-term leases or commercial lets
They provide a “before” picture that can help with claims or disputes.
How Fabric Inventories Helps Landlords Across South London
With over 8 years of experience, we’re trusted by agents and landlords throughout West Wickham, Bromley, and Croydon for:
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Fast, 24-hour turnaround
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High-resolution, time-stamped photographs
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Impartial, court-ready documentation
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Transparent pricing from just £150 per report
We’re fully insured and compliant with all major tenancy deposit schemes.
🡒 Learn more about our Schedule of Condition Reports
🡒 View our Sample Reports to see the clarity we offer
Whether you manage one property or a portfolio across South East London, our family-run team is ready to help.
Book Your Condition Report Today
Don’t wait until there’s a problem to gather evidence. Get ahead with a clear, professionally compiled property condition report — trusted by agents, accepted by deposit schemes, and ready within 24 hours.
Address
41 Oaklands Ave
West Wickham
BR4 9LF
UK
info@fabricinventories.co.uk
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