Requested that agent takes minimal photos on inspection, didn't go well? (England)
Hi all,
I have rented for over 10 years and never had general photos taken of my home except for the inventory at check in and check out.
It took me by surprise when the estate agent at our new home started taking so many photos on our first inspection. It felt so invasive and I worried about where the photos would be stored etc. Afterwards, I did my research and came to the conclusion that it would be totally reasonable to request that they only take photos of any maintenance issues, damage, or areas the landlord is concerned about. Obviously meters, fire alarms. But not a complete photo catalogue of our home.
The letting agent did not take it well and tried to tell me I couldn't refuse. I didn't back down and she accused me of arguing with her when I asked her where they would be stored, for how long, who can access etc. She reluctantly looked around without taking photos and said she would have to 'check if the landlord is ok' for me to refuse photos. I said multiple times that photos of issues/damage etc is fine.
Was I reasonable? I was totally polite, I just didn't back down. I really hope it doesn't reflect on us badly with the landlord as we love the house and we'd like to stay long term.
Thank you for any input. Overthinking!