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Things to look out for when viewing a flat

When you go to look at a flat there are a number of things you should be considering, the area, the cost and the condition of the flat. Particularly if you haven't rented in the area before, it usually pays off to look at a few different flats to get an idea of what's available.

You should also try to visit the area you're thinking of living in at different times of day and night and both during the week and at the weekend. It's a good idea to ask around as local knowledge is invaluable.

Below are a few things to look out for and questions you should be asking, ask the Landlord to confirm IN WRITING that any necessary repairs, redecoration and cleaning will be done BEFORE you move in.

Money

• How does the rental price compare to other properties in the area?
• Have you paid a deposit? If so what is it for?
• Have you got a receipt/invoice for all transactions?
• Are you responsible for gas/electricity/ water charges. Some landlords include water rates, others don't.
• How much does it cost to heat the house? (If possible, ask the previous tenants)

Outside

• Is the property's exterior in a good state of repair?
• Are the gutters & drainpipes cracked or broken or full of debris?
• Maintenance Is the property clean?
• Is there any peeling wallpaper?
• Are there damp patches on the walls?
• Is there any flaking paintwork?
• Is there mould on the walls?

Heating

• Does the property have adequate heating in every room?
• Make sure you get your gas and electricity meters read immediately after you have taken responsibility for the property.
• Gas Is the CORGI gas safety certificate still valid?
• Is the gas boiler flame blue?
• Is the boiler free of sooty stains?

Gas Safety Certificate:
All landlords now have to carry out annual gas safety inspections (with a CORGI registered engineer) by law and provide each tenant with a copy of the Gas Safety Certificate. As a new tenant, you should be issued with a copy of the Certificate before you move in.

The Health & Safety Executive has a Gas Safety Advice line:
0800 300363

In an emergency, for example if you think there is a gas leak, call:
0800 111999

Electricity

• Have the electrical wiring, fuses and earths been checked in the last 5 years?
• Are there any blackened or burnt sockets or sockets which get warm when turned on?
• Are there enough plug sockets?
• Are there sparks when switches are pressed?
• Do the electric gas fires work? Check the gas fire heats up properly and isn't heat stained.
• Do all appliances work e.g.cooker, fridge-freezer?

Electricity Certificate (NICEIC):
Landlords may hold an NICEIC which proves that the property has had an electrical check in the last five years. Although this is recommended, it is not a legal requirement.

If you are having problems with your energy supplier,

contact http://www.energywatch.org.uk 08459 06 07 08

Gas and Electricity bills will need to be held under a name(s) when you move in. Normally different people take responsibility for the electricity and gas bills, and each person who lives there makes a contribution when the bill comes. If you start a kitty for bills, in theory, when the bills come, you'll have most of the money already.

Security

• Is the house secure?
• Are all the external doors solid with five-bar mortice locks?
• Do the internal doors all have locks?
• Do all ground floor windows have security locks?
• Are the ground floor curtains sufficiently lined or is it possible to see through them?
• Does the property have a burglar alarm?

Plumbing

• Does the plumbing work?
• Is there hot running water?
• Have you tried and tested all the taps?
• Does the toilet flush or leak?
• Are the basins or bath cracked?

Furniture

• Has the house got enough furniture for the occupants?
• Is there sufficient storage space (Kitchen, wardrobe etc.)
• Is any of the existing furniture the property of existing tenants?
• Is all the furniture, including beds, in good condition?
• Is the furniture fire retardant?
• Your landlord should have an inventory of all the furniture which comes as part of the property.

Fire

• Are there any smoke alarms?
• Is there a fire extinguisher or fire blanket?
• Are there adequate means of escape in case of emergency?
• Do the furnishings have fire retardant labels so that they comply with safety regulations?

In general, trust your instincts, if you don't feel comfortable with the area, flat or landlord, don't move