Renting a home is a daunting prospect and it is easy to forget to do the basics when viewing a property. Below is a handy guide that ensures you don’t overlook anything when assessing your potential new home.
Research the Area
Think about the area you are looking in before you move. Is the property near a hospital? If so, can you hear ambulance sirens all the time? Is it close to a noisy pub or community centre?
Check the Water Pressure in the Property
When you first inspect a property, it’s always good practice to run the taps and the shower. If there’s a problem with the water pressure, you can negotiate with your landlord before signing an agreement. If you sign the agreement and discover this issue later, the landlord may not be obligated to pay for repairs as per the terms of your tenancy agreement.
Thoroughly Inspect Large Appliances
This is especially pertinent if the large appliances such as the fridge, freezer and dishwasher are included in the tenancy agreement. Of course, it may be difficult to test out all of these items during your viewing of the property; however, you should indicate to the landlord that you want a 2 week period to ensure all appliances included in your agreement are not faulty.
Installed Safety Systems
Home security and safety systems are often at the top of any tenant’s list of priorities when looking at a new home. It’s always a good idea to check if the property’s safety and security standards are up to your own. Is there a carbon monoxide detector? Are there locks on the downstairs windows? Do the furnishings comply with fire safety regulations? Is there a legally required fire extinguisher and fire blanket present in the kitchen?
If you decide to proceed with the property, ensure you get everything in writing from your landlord, conduct an independent inventory before signing the tenancy agreement and compare it to your landlords and be up front about any potential animal tenants.
If you’re considering becoming a tenant, please contact us. We’d be delighted to help!
