Top Things To Consider Before Renting A House

If you are on the lookout for a new property to rent, there are several things you need to be aware of before signing your contract and committing to the rental agreement.

Although properties should be carefully maintained by the letting agency, this isn’t always the case, so it’s important that you take the time when viewing the property to ensure that it’s safe, secure, and in proper working order.

This article will share some top tips for things to look for in a rental property, from safety features to the exterior of the property itself.

The Exterior Of The Property

It’s vital that you have a solid understanding of the state of the home’s exterior. If the exterior isn’t properly maintained, it could lead to potential hazards down the line.

As you first walk up to the property you should be able to get a sense that the house or flat has been well looked after as commonly, if a property does not look its best from the outside, this could also ring true for the state of the interior once you get inside.

Take the time to check out any outdoor space attached to the property. Is the garden properly maintained, and if not, who is responsible for looking after it once you move it?

Feeling secure in the property is of the utmost importance, so make sure that all of the windows and doors are fitted with locks and there’s no sign of damage that could put you at risk.

Aside from the property itself, it’s good to get a sense of the surrounding buildings and the area itself and be mindful of anything that could become problematic down the line, whether it’s noisy neighbours or a lack of parking space should you need it for your car.

The Interior Of The Property

Once you have assessed the exterior, it’s time to check out the interior of the home.

As previously mentioned, it is the job of the letting agency or the landlord to make sure that the property is properly maintained and everything is in good working order, but there may be some things that are not as they should be, and you will want to flag this up with the letting agent before moving in.

Try not to look at the interior from an aesthetic point of view and think more practically when on the lookout for any potential issues.

Are there any signs of damp or mold? Does the central heating system work as it should? Do all of the electrical outlets look safe to use?

Another thing to consider is the condition of any fixtures or fittings within the property, especially if you are taking it on furnished or part-furnished.

You don’t want to move in and suddenly find out the bed is broken or the shower doesn’t work, so ask lots of questions and test out what you need to when you look around.

Safety Features

Your safety should be a top priority, and you need to make sure that before you commit to anything, the property has been fitted with all of the legally required safety features to keep you and your loved ones out of harm’s reach.

Things such as smoke alarms, fire doors, and carbon monoxide detectors should all be present and working correctly when you move in.

Not having these safety precautions in place could open you up to serious risks to your health. If you became ill from smoke inhalation or carbon monoxide poisoning and it wasn’t your fault, you could be entitled to make a claim for personal injury compensation.

If you notice that anything looks suspicious and you fear it could impact your safety, be sure to raise your concerns with the letting agent or landlord as they show you around.

Additional Considerations

In addition to the aforementioned points, it’s also wise to inquire about the lease terms, including any clauses regarding maintenance responsibilities, rental increases, or early termination.

Understanding these terms can prevent misunderstandings or disputes later on. Furthermore, consider the proximity of essential amenities such as grocery stores, schools, and healthcare facilities, as well as the accessibility of public transportation if needed.

Taking these factors into account can help ensure that the rental property meets your needs and enhances your overall living experience.

By thoroughly examining both the exterior and interior of the property, ensuring the presence of essential safety features, and considering additional factors relevant to your lifestyle, you can make a well-informed decision when selecting a rental property that aligns with your preferences and priorities.