Checklist to use when doing a house viewing

Utilities

  • Are bills inclusive? If not, find out how much they will cost a week
  • Does the tenancy agreement have a fair usage policy?
  • Is WIFI provided free of charge?]

Plumbing

  • Does the shower work effectively (you won’t want a trickle)?
  • Are there enough showering/washing facilities?

Security

  • Does the property have a working burglar alarm?
  • Are all the external doors solid?
  • Does the property have double glazing?
  • Do the downstairs windows have locks?

Furnishings and general

  • Does any of the furniture belong to the existing tenants?
  • Are there any signs of damp?
  • Are there enough sockets in each room?

Kitchen

  • Is there enough storage space?
  • Is there enough fridge/freezer capacity?

Money

  • Does the contract clearly state what the rent includes?
  • Do you know which tenancy deposit scheme your deposit will be held in?
  • Do you require a guarantor?
  • Is there a summer rent discount?
  • Is the rent paid monthly / termly / quarterly?
  • Is contents insurance included?

Outside the property

  • Is the garden maintained by the landlord?
  • Is there space for parking or secure cycle storage?
  • Will you need a car parking permit?

Agreements

  • Do you know when the tenancy starts and ends?
  • Who manages the property? Name, address and phone Owner
  • Is the landlord a member of the Unipol Code?
  • Do you know what you are responsible for maintaining? e.g, replacing lights and taking bins out
  • Has the landlord/ agent provided you with any extra services (e.g window cleaning, gardening, lighting of common parts, dustbin and refuse disposal)?
  • Has the landlord/ agent agreed any changes to the property (get them in writing).

Other

  • Are there shops nearby?
  • Is public transport nearby should you need it?

Extra tips for virtual viewings 

  • Look at all photos in detail before viewing to ensure you’ve got a list of questions you may need to ask
  • Make sure you ask to see all rooms.
  • If possible try and screen record the viewing so you can refer back to it.
  • Ask to see any outside space in the property.
  • If the landlord is unable to answer any questions follow the viewing up with an email so they don’t forget.