Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a video inventory?

It is a detailed written inventory supported by video evidence. The key parts of the inventory are backed up by video which is produced to a high standard. There are three types of inventory: written, written with photographs and written with video support (a video inventory as it is called).

How much does a video inventory cost in relation to a written inventory?

Because The Video Inventory Agency uses a centralised production facility at its headquarters, the cost of a video inventory is not that much higher than a traditional written inventory.

Can a video inventory be used in court?

Yes. The documents and video are produced to a high standard both in terms of quality and professionalism, and they are seen as a key aide to establishing right and wrong both by the tenant deposit schemes and the courts. Although The Video Inventory Agency has only experienced a handful a cases that potentially could have gone to court, all were resolved once the parties realised the significance of the video.

Can tenants commission their own video inventory?

There is nothing stopping a tenant producing their own video inventory via a third party such as The Video Inventory Agency, in order to protect their position. To have assured credibility though, it would be best to inform the letting agent and landlords that such an inventory is being prepared and provide them with copies at the outset.

Why is an independently prepared video inventory so important?

An independent third-party has no connection either with the landlord, letting agent, tenant, or other parties preparing a video inventory. Therefore, they are seen as impartial, with no vested interest and show no bias towards any of the parties involved. They deal in facts alone.

Why can’t I just make my own video?

Firstly, all the clerks and agents that work for The Video Inventory Agency are professional inventory takers. They know what to include and how to include it. Secondly, impartiality and independence is vital. If someone took their own inventory, then a claim of bias might occur. Thirdly, the video evidence has to be produced to an extremely high, professional standard.

What else can a video inventory be used for?

Basically, if you have something to record, or prove, that can be physically filmed, then a video inventory service can be used.

Why would a letting agent use a video inventory?

To allow their staff to concentrate on what they’re good at: keeping their landlords and tenants happy. It gives them peace of mind to be able to step back and allow a third party to produce a high quality video inventory.

Can insurance companies use video inventories?

Yes, insurance companies are big users of video inventories. They recognise the value of video over a written list. Insurance companies are keen to encourage their clients make use of such a facility when it comes to recording home contents and other legal agreements.

Are video inventories good for home contents?

They are ideal for a record of home contents. Most people will have had to at some stage go through the trauma of trying to remember what they owned and its value, after say a burglary, or household accidents such as flooding. Being able to present to your insurer an independent video inventory of all that you owned, supported by documentary evidence of its value, makes life very much easier.

How about using a video inventory for vacant property inspections?

Vacant properties can present a number of time-consuming problems for their owners, not least ensuring their upkeep and safety. Agents from The Video Inventory Agency use their processes to help landlords keep an eye on all of their properties.

Is a video inventory useful for commercial premises inventories?

Video inventories are not just useful for domestic properties. They are used for many commercial properties and landlords find them vital in their dealings with tenants.

What is a check-in inspection?

A video inventory is used to check-in a tenant into a rented property which would include recording the state of a property, its contents and the meter readings. It would also include a test of the power supply and functionality of the main appliances.

What is an interim inspection?

A lot of problems with tenancy agreements start either quite quickly, or midway through the agreement period. A landlord should ask for an interim inspection every six months. This allows problems to be spotted and hopefully remedied before they become major issues.

What is the origin of video inventory service?

The original video inventory service is a record of fact, whether of a tenancy inventory, or home contents for any subsequent insurance claim. The video inventory prepared by The Video Inventory Agency is a comprehensive service that complies with modern codes of practice.

What is a check-out service? 

A check-out service is provided when a tenant leaves a property. It includes a matching up of the original inventory, with a visit at the end, usually without the prescence of the tenant. This includes state of the property, contents and meter readings.