Revealed – what does it take to become an inventory clerk?

Thorough and detailed inventory checks are vital to the success of the property industry. During a time when the market is buoyant, and regulation is starting to increase, internal processes must be carried out properly to prevent standards from slipping.

By relying on professional inventory clerks to conduct these checks, unwarranted costs can be kept to a limit, and the possibility of deposit disputes can be reduced too.

Here at The AIIC, using our experience as the leading association of dedicated independent inventory clerks, we reveal what it takes to become an inventory clerk.

What does an inventory clerk do?

An independent inventory clerk carries out detailed reports about a property. These record the condition and contents of the property through images and text, before, after and during a tenancy.

Damage and deterioration shown in these reports form solid evidence that helps decide if deductions need to be taken from the deposit.

Inventory clerks are heavily relied upon to conduct these reports to a high standard. These are vital documents that are used to compare the condition of the home at the end of the tenancy with the condition at the beginning. 

Characteristics of a professional inventory clerk 

AIIC professional inventory clerks possess a wide range of characteristics have had to meet specific criteria to become a member of the association and are equipped to do their job to a high standard.

In this sector, nothing must go unnoticed as it could have a damaging effect on the safety and finances of the parties involved.

To become an inventory clerk in the property industry, you will need to be attentive and detailed when conveying information through reports and images. 

Inventory clerks must also perform their tasks in a set timeframe. Therefore, they must be highly efficient throughout the process, but not allow the time constraints to lower their standard of work.

The portfolio of homes that must be visited varies, but they always require good organisational skills, good systems and structure and planning. 

Inventory clerks must also be always alert. In this industry, there are a wide range of homes that must be visited and some homes might be hazardous while others are safe.

The criteria of a successful inventory clerk

Although some individuals may naturally have traits a good inventory clerk requires, getting the appropriate training and meeting the AIIC membership criteria will drastically enhance these. 

By investing time and a small fee in exchange for an inventory training course, you can equip yourself with the necessary skills. We welcome established and inexperienced clerks to learn the tricks of the trade through the courses we offer.

Legal and compliance issues, damage assessments, how to conduct reports in a time efficient manner and more essential information is taught during our training courses.

Furthermore, from a business aspect, these credentials can help to establish a good reputation and form trust with prospective clients.

The Association of Independent Inventory Clerks is a useful place to look for an inventory clerk, because you can be assured of a level of professionalism. You can find out more here.

As an agent or landlord, you want to protect your investments and establish smooth transitions from one tenant to the next. Here at The AIIC, we are dedicated to promoting the highest possible standards of accuracy and reliability in the inventory process and have been endorsing high levels of professionalism in the inventory business since 1996.

It is our mission to ensure proper information and training is provided and our bank of highly skilled members will provide the best possible service. For more information, please contact us or search for your local AIIC member clerk now.

You can also download a copy of our Code of Practice and Guidelines for Professional Practice guide here.

Published on 27/05/2022