In a world where technology now exists to streamline and improve the inventory and check-in and check-out processes, as well as simplifying regular inspections, landlords may wonder if employing a specialist inventory clerk is necessary. Inventory professionals may equally wonder whether the new technology could impact their business or even mark the end of their careers.
The answer to these questions is yes and no, respectively. Inventory clerks will still prove beneficial to landlords and businesses and there is undoubtedly a bright future ahead, especially for those who move with the times and use technology to improve the service that they offer to their clients.
The benefits of employing an inventory clerk
For landlords, inventory clerks can prevent problems, protect their property and ultimately save both time and money.
Whilst a landlord can make direct use of InventoryBase to keep abreast of the inventory process, there are still many who simply do not have the time to record the details required when listing a property’s contents and the condition of items. Similarly, many landlords do not have the time or inclination to carry out mid-tenancy and check-out inspections.
One of the many benefits of hiring an inventory clerk can be seen if, and when, tenancy disputes arise. A professional inventory clerk will have experience in ensuring that a fair and mutually satisfactory outcome is achieved. In addition, clerks are familiar with common pitfalls in the process and can follow best practice in protecting the landlord when it comes to factors such as fair wear and tear.
It must be remembered, however, that a landlord still has some responsibility for ensuring that all relevant items are included in the inventory. Locked-away items not revealed to the inventory clerk, for example, will still remain the sole responsibility of the landlord.
As with any professional service, the role of the inventory clerk does have its limits. It is not usually within the clerk’s remit to find goods that go missing, for example, although some will offer this service for an additional charge.
Future opportunities
This is actually a great time to be an inventory clerk. Technology makes it easier to fulfil the needs of clients, requiring less time than traditional offline or manual approaches but allowing for higher standards and better end results than ever before.
More clients can be accommodated thanks to the time saved, increasing the potential for financial rewards and the sense of achievement in seeing a job well done.
Technology can help to ensure client satisfaction, even when expectations are rising. Since word of mouth, personal and network referrals are all key to success in any services business, inventory professionals at the top of their game are now seeing unprecedented demand for their services. Whilst the UK economy is showing signs of improvement, the lending climate remains conservative. This should result in the continuance of a buoyant rental market and demand for related services for the foreseeable future.
Make sure you are best-placed to make the most of this potential as an inventory clerk by signing up with InventoryBase today.