Prepare a Checklist Prior to Viewing

Posted on 02/06/2010

You've passed by the Clear Lets office on numerous occasions. You like the selection of flats on offer, the staff seem friendly and you're really impressed with the smart office décor.

So you finally venture through the Clear Lets door and select a handful of properties to view. What’s your next step? What kind of property should you be renting and how?

Well, there are a number of factors you should bear in mind when considering renting a flat:

Always take a friend or relative with you to the property. This is safer and, if your English isn't that great, means you have someone to interpret for you. Also, two pairs of eyes are better than one when it comes to assessing your prospective new home.

Go early and check out the locale. Is it a bit too noisy? Are the streets tidy or is there lots of litter around which could attract vermin? Is it a safe place to walk around in late at night? What's the availability of public transport ie are there regular buses or trains going into town?

Check out the condition of the guttering, roof and garden. You want a property that has been well-maintained and looked after. Not only is it depressing to come home to a property which looks as if it's falling down on the outside, you don't want the hassle that goes with having a leaky roof or an over-grown garden (especially if you're the one expected to look after it!)

Once inside, take your time and inspect the property thoroughly. Maybe you want to consider noting down a few points beforehand  to remind yourself to check whether the cooker is gas or electric, how much the Factors bills are etc.

Imagine yourself living in the property. Will all your bits and bobs fit? If the property is unfurnished and you intend to move your own bed, sofa etc in - are the rooms big enough to accommodate your eg Queen Size bed? If the property is furnished, is there enough storage space for what you want to bring with you ie boxes of childrens toys?

If the flat is gas maintained, ask to see a copy of the Gas Safety Certificate.

When was the last time the wiring was done?

Don't take the landlord's word for it - check the cooker, fridge, shower etc work while you're there.

Are you allowed to bring Rover and Ginger? Some landlords will allow certain pets eg a cat rather than a dog or a budgie but no hamsters.

Myra Blaik, Operations Manager Clear Group Scotland Ltd, said: "It's easy to get carried away with superficial aspects of a property such as the decor or a great bathroom.

"But when it comes down to it, remember what you wanted from that property in the first place. Was it a place with big rooms you were looking for, a driveway for off-road parking or a gas rather than an electric cooker? Taking along a checklist is a great idea and something I'd always advise a client to do."

So now it's over to you...happy hunting!