Tenant Guide

Main Points When Renting

Even though you are renting a house, office, or apartment rather than buying it, remember that it will be your home or office for the foreseeable future. Your priorities will vary depending on whether you are looking for a house, apartment, studio, or room, but this checklist is a basic guide for finding the right rental property.

Exterior

• Is the outside of the property in good condition?
• Does it feel secure? Are the external doors protected? Is there an alarm system or intercom?
• Is there a garden or yard, and who is responsible for maintaining it?
• What are the area and neighborhood like? Are your preferred amenities and transport links nearby?
• Are there any potential inconveniences?
• What are the neighbors like?
• Has the property ever been burgled or damaged?
• Are the locks good quality?

Interior

• Is the interior in good condition? Are there signs of damp, peeling paint, or mold?
• Are repairs needed? Are any furniture or items broken?
• Is there central heating and do all radiators work properly?
• Is the property properly insulated? What are the windows like, and is there double glazing?
• Is there enough storage space?
• Do kitchen appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers work?
• Are there enough kitchen cupboards and work surfaces?
• Are pots, pans, and kitchen equipment in usable condition?
• Are bedrooms adequately heated? Are there curtains or blinds?
• Check the bathrooms and make sure taps do not leak and showers work correctly.
• Are you allowed to change decoration in the property?
• Are there enough sockets and is the property wired properly?

Safety Checks

• Do lower-floor windows, if any, have locks?
• Is there a burglar alarm?
• Is there any fire detection system and does it work?
• Is there an easy escape route in case of fire?

Financial Considerations

• What is the rent and what is included?
• What other bills or fees will there be?
• How much deposit is required and what are the landlord's rules for deductions?
• What are the expected ongoing costs?
• Can you afford the rent together with the deposit and running costs?
• When considering rent, account for property management fees, common-area or elevator fees, and agency commission.

If You Decide to Continue

• If something needs repair, make sure you have the landlord's permission.
• Double-check furnishings, equipment, and their condition before moving in.
• Keep the rental agreement and make sure you fully understand it.
• Check and record electricity, water, and heating meter readings on move-in day.