Yeehlow

Today many agencies and private homeowners give their potential new tenants the possibility of visiting the property in person at least once. This modus operandi has become a standard practice useful both for tenants and landlords since it gives to the first ones the chance to actually assess the condition of the room or house they are going to live in, while the latter will meet and have a chat with their lodgers during which they can seize the opportunity to explain rules and demands clearly.

We’ll now focus on the tenant side of the process: here you find a list with the top 5 things you should always ask when viewing a rental property!

When was the house built?

Get informed about the construction year of the building you are visiting and those in the surroundings. This information will immediately provide a general idea of the maintenance works needed and it will be indicative of the house’s general conditions.

Why is the former tenant moving?

Enquire about why the previous lodger decided to move. While it is perfectly normal that he developed new necessities or rethought his priorities, it can be problematic if the reason for changing has something to do with the property, the flatmates, the neighbours or some features of the area you’re thinking to move in.

Are the plumbing and the electricity grid working properly?

Make sure you always ask about the condition of these services, since major maintenance works or replacements can be very expensive and they will eventually push up the sale price.

It can also be useful to be informed about the state of the internet, phone and tv connections if you often use these devices to work or you need them to be particularly fast.

What’s included in the price?

Ask whether the rental price includes any furniture or bills, so that you can assess the actual sum you’ll spend every month and consider a potential initial investment to buy what won’t be there. Sometimes it’s possible to make special arrangements with the former lodger and get the bed or the wardrobes for a few extra pounds!

How many people are living in the property?

Get informed about your new flatmates and try to understand a bit about each of them: age, occupation, country of origin… in this way you’ll be able to settle and start your tenancy in best possible way. Also, allow the landlord to tell them something about you if they ask.