What is a property inventory app?

Sounds obvious doesn't it, but the term 'app' is often misunderstood…

Property inventory apps aren't just available in the form of mobile and tablet devices found on Apple Store and Google Play. The term app can also relate to a website-based application (app) used via internet browsers like Chrome, Safari or Firefox.

For example, apps like those offered by Inventory Hive provide website-based apps across a range of browsers, which also integrates and syncs with mobile apps found on Apple Store or Google Play. Multi-platform usage like this is more often referred to as 'Cloud Based' software. The benefit of property inventory ‘Cloud Based’ software apps is that landlords, agents, inventory clerks and property managers can access their reports securely from a remote device (not stored on one local computer). Inventory Hive allows users the flexibility of switching between setting up online via a desktop browser, before perhaps visiting a property offline or online with their mobile or tablet device to gather the descriptions and photographs.

What should I look out for when choosing a property inventory app?

First off, it’s important to find a solution that reduces administration time, but without compromising on detail and picture quality. Property inventory apps like those provided by Inventory Hive use the latest technology to create an intuitive experience. But what does this actually mean and how will it reduce administration time? Many Inventory apps only provide a snapshot from a moment-in-time, meaning they don’t remember information from previous reports. Of course, this leads to duplication and repetition. Inventory Hive remembers the property walk-around order, descriptions of fixtures and fittings. So when tenants come and go, all you need to do is amend the cleanliness/condition and update the photographs. Furthermore, when completing interim and check-out reports, users are presented with their previous photos for a direct side-by-side comparison. This then allows them to select items: in need of replacement (disrepair); in need of repair (in-repair); in neglect (not due to ‘Fair wear and tear’); that are missing. Descriptions and pictures are then merged together from previous reports, to create a side-by-side PDF report.

Of course, inventories aren’t just about how they are created. They’re also about approval and storage. Many property inventory apps claim to offer a paperless approach, but this often involves the tenant being present to physically sign the device. Inventory Hive enables users to seek ‘remote approval’ by triggering a fully automated feedback and approval process that replicates traditional letting agency practices. This means tenants can confirm receipt of their report before they arrive and then also allows them to approve and comment of the contents of the inventory without having to come back to the agency. This offers a robust and fair platform for both parties.

What to look out for when trialling and testing a property inventory app?

This has to be ‘ease of use’, many inventory apps are complicated and rigid - forcing users to populate fields that may or may not be relevant. It is highly recommend to use the app in as real life a scenario as possible and then follow the process right through to getting it signed and approved. There’s no real substitute for actually doing an inventory for real. Again though, it makes sense to first familiarise yourself with the property inventory app you’re trailing. Before getting to the property, do you know how to add a room, item and description? Moreover, do you know how to delete and item or re-order where it is situated? By having a play before you arrive at a property for real, you can save yourself a lot of time and avoid getting too bogged-down. Trying to get to grips with new software and create a detailed inventory at the same time can result in information overload. So, discovering how to navigate your app before you arrive, should allow you concentrate on performing a comprehensive inventory.

Find out more at inventoryhive.co.uk