Viewing a rental property: 38 questions to ask

The rental market is booming. With competition between potential tenants fiercer than ever before, it can be all too easy to jump in feet first without doing any sort of due diligence. Then, post move day, issue after issue pops up – dodgy heating, trouble with transport, noise outside at night. Here we’ve put together the ultimate checklist of questions and considerations to tick off before you sign on the dotted line…

Outgoings and rent specifics

• How much are the bills and will I need to pay them?
• How much is the council tax?
• What local amenities are nearby?
• What are the neighbours like?
• How long is the contract/rental term?
• When is the rent due and how should it be paid?
• How much is the deposit and is there a holding deposit?
• What’s the policy on pets and redecoration?
• How energy efficient is the property?

The exterior of the property

• Is the outside of the property in good condition?
• Is there a garden? And who is responsible for the maintenance?
• What is the local area like? Are there good amenities and transport links?
• Are there any warning signs – such as passing traffic noise, or a nearby nightclub, exposure to flash flooding?

Condition of the property

• Are there signs of damp, such as flaky paint or infestations of any kind?
• Are repairs needed?
• Is the provided furniture safe and fit for use?
• Is the property secure – such as windows and external doors?
• Is there an entry-phone system and burglar alarm?
• Has the property ever been burgled or damaged, how about the neighbours?

Local area

• What are the neighbours like?
• Is there central heating? Do all the radiators function properly?
• Is there hot water, and good water pressure?

Interior of the property

• • Is it fully insulated, free from draughts, and double-glazed?
  • Is there sufficient storage space?
  • Is there any sign of questionable wiring, loose wires or faulty plugs or lights?
  • Do all of the appliances work?
  • Are there enough kitchen cupboards, storage and work tops?
  • Do the taps leak? Does the shower work as it should?
  • Does the bathroom sealant look fit for purpose?
  • Are you allowed to redecorate and is there any guidelines as to what’s prohibited?

Security and safety

• • • Have all appliances had safety checks (PAT tested) and can you view the paperwork?
    • Do the windows have locks, particularly downstairs?
    • Is there a security alarm and/or CCTV?
    • Is there a safety blanket and fire extinguisher in the kitchen? (There should be, as this is required by law).
    • Is the landlord’s gas safety record available?
    • Are there carbon monoxide detectors present, as is legally required?
    • Are there enough smoke alarms, and do they all work?
    • Are there clear routes for escape in the event of a fire?

Found the rental property of your dreams? If you need a helping hand, our home removals service can help (and we promise not to scrape those freshly painted rented walls!).

Fill out our two-minute quote form. Or you could call Ralph, owner of Van Man York on 07931 849 112, or get in touch with the office via phone or email: 01904 375 995 | admin@vanmanyork.co.uk.