Landlords and management companies should check each rental property thoroughly for signs of common damage, which can often be missed at check out, costing landlords hundreds of pounds, warns The Association of Independent Inventory Clerks (AIIC).

According to the AIIC, the most common damage found in rental properties includes iron burns on carpets; cigarette burns; soiled marks on baths and UPVC window sills and frames; heat damage to polished wooden furniture; and stiletto heel imprints on wooden floors and vinyl.

Whilst some marks or stains may be obvious, others such as cigarette burns, may be harder to spot if they have been concealed.

Pat Barber, Chair of the AIIC, said: “Most tenants are aware when they have caused actual damage to a property and usually try to hide the damage subtly, which is why is it absolutely vital for landlords and management companies to ensure that no proverbial stone is left unturned when looking for damage at check out.

“Obviously, there is a distinct difference between fair wear and tear and actual damage – for example carpet tread will flatten over time, where there has been foot traffic, but cigarette burns, stains or soiling will require a charge.

“Damage and fair wear and tear needs to be independently and expertly assessed, in order to provide solid grounds for any charges raised against the tenant. Quite simply, this is not an area for landlords or management companies to try and undertake themselves, as any damage missed at check out cannot be later charged to the former tenant, ultimately leaving the landlord to foot the bill.”