The last room often takes longer than the first. You may have moved the things you use every day, only to find a broken bookcase, a rolled carpet and several boxes still waiting for a decision. Before you arrange a collection, compare what is left with the property inventory and any instructions you have agreed with the landlord.
Make a list of what belongs to the property
Start with anything you did not bring in. Ask about freestanding appliances, curtain poles, beds and furniture supplied with the tenancy. Set those items apart on your list. If a fixture or appliance is connected, tell us that when you enquire so we can discuss the scope before booking. A photo of a fridge tells us its size, but it does not tell us who owns it or whether it is ready to be taken.
Match the collection to the handover
Tell us the date the keys go back, which rooms still contain rubbish and whether you will be present. If cleaners or movers are coming, give each team enough room to work. We can quote for an agreed list of leftover items through our house clearance service without assuming the whole property needs to be emptied.
Send a final set of photos
Take one photo from each doorway and a closer one of anything bulky. Include the stairs, lift or walk from the nearest loading point. If the list changes after your move, let us know before the visit. The closer the photos are to the actual job, the easier it is to agree what we will take.
Leave a clear record of the handover
Imagine you have a bookcase to collect, a washing machine that came with the flat and a mirror the landlord has agreed you can leave. Put those three decisions in a single message to the agent. On the collection list, include only the bookcase. After it goes, take a photo of the empty space and keep the message alongside your inventory.
If somebody else will let us in, tell us their name and make sure they have the same list. It is worth leaving a little time between the clearance and the final inspection, particularly when a cleaner still needs access. If a deposit question comes up separately, see GOV.UK’s guidance on tenancy deposits.
Related guide: Sorting a family home before a clearance.
