Things to Keep in Mind Before Renting a Flat

There are several renters every day who understand the challenge of finding the right place to live. This process typically involves spending many hours reviewing internet listings, scheduling multiple viewings, and travelling to meet with landlords and property managers. 

When looking at a rental property, it can be challenging to ensure you check everything you need, aside from the headache of scheduling viewings and competing with other applicants. Landlords and property managers occasionally give quick tours, making it simple to overlook flaws and more serious issues.

Things to Do Before Renting Out Property 

Here are the things you should look for before renting a property. Whether you are looking at a flat or conducting a formal walkthrough and inspection before signing a lease. 

1. Floors, Walls, and Ceilings

Start by checking the floors. Look for cracks, stains, or signs of water damage. The floor should be flat and not feel weak when you walk on it. Also, check if the floor is made of strong materials. For example, tile is more resistant to water than hardwood, which could get damaged easily.

After that, check the walls. If you find small holes in any part of the house, it is normal; however, if there are large cracks, that might be a sign of serious structural problems. That could signify that the building isn’t in good shape. 

Moreover, look at the ceiling. If there are stains, cracks or water spots, these are the signs of leaks, especially in the kitchen or bathroom. Any of these could mean the landlord hasn’t been keeping up with repairs.  

2. Doors and Windows

Doors and windows are crucial for both security and comfort. Therefore, make sure they are properly functioning. Also, it should lock securely and not feel loose or wobbly. 

Check the ventilation so that you are protected from the cold breeze coming from door to the window. This can elevate your heating or cooling bills. Moreover, feel around the edges of windows and doors to see if air is leaking in. And if there’s an issue, askthe landlord to fix it. The response can actually tell you a lot about how helpful they’ll be in the future. 

3. Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

In places with extreme weather, you’ll want a working heating and cooling system. During your visit, ask the landlord to show you how the system works. Try turning up the heat or air conditioning and feel the air coming out of the vents. Listen for strange noises, which could mean something’s wrong.

You can also enquire as to whether the filters have been changed or when the system was last serviced or changed recently. A well-maintained system is a good sign that the landlord cares for the property.

4. Plumbing

Check the water taps in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry area. Check the water pressure and how strong it is. Moreover, try changing the water temperature from cold to hot to see if it responds fast or not. 

Additionally, remember to flush the toilets and check that they are functioning correctly. Remember to flush the toilets and check that they are functioning correctly. Finally, talk to the landlord if something seems off, like weak flushing or water that doesn't drain. 

5. Lights and Electricity

Even if the unit gets lots of sunlight during the day, make sure to turn on all the lights. See if they work and whether any bulbs need replacing. This is also a good time to ask if the landlord will fix or replace broken fixtures.

Also, check the electrical outlets. Are they firmly in place, or do they move around when you plug something in? Some outlets have a small light indicator — green usually means it’s working. If you can, bring a small phone charger or device to test a few outlets.

6. Appliances

Appliances are key to daily life. Check that the fridge, stove, oven, dishwasher, and microwave are clean and working. You may not be able to cook a full meal during the viewing, but you should be allowed to turn things on to make sure they work.

For instance, turn on the oven and check if it heats up. Open the fridge and feel if it’s cold inside. You can also check if it heats up. Open the fridge and analyse if it's cold inside. Also, check for a thermometer to make sure it's at or below 40°F (4°C). And ultimately ask about the age of the appliances and if they’ve been frequently serviced.

7. Smoke Detectors

Safety should always come first. Look around the rental for smoke detectors. These should be installed on the ceiling or high on the wall, and you should see one in or near every bedroom, plus on each level of the home.

Look for a blinking light — that usually means it has power. During a move-in inspection, press the test button to make sure the alarm works. If there are no detectors or they don’t work, the landlord needs to fix that before you move in.

8. Signs of Pests

No one loves to be around mice, rats, bugs, or other pests. When walking through the rental, try listening for sounds like scratching in the walls or floors. Moreover, look for holes, droppings or stains, especially in corner areas or behind appliances. 

Check under sinks and inside cabinets for sticky traps, which might suggest the landlord is dealing with a pest issue. Don’t hesitate to ask the landlord if the unit has had pest issues in the past and what their pest control policy is. 

9. Parking

If you own a vehicle, you’ll need a convenient and safe place to park. Ask if the rental includes parking. If yes, then where – like underground, on the street or in a garage?

Ensure there are enough spots for everyone in the household. If there is a garage, ask to see if the door and opener work. Moreover, check that the space is big enough for your vehicle. 



Do Your Due Diligence

Looking for a house to rent is just one thing. You also need to – 

• Go through the lease agreement carefully.
• Put your queries and concerns for anything you don’t understand.
• Search for a landlord or property management company.
• Take photos of any damage you find during the walkthrough.
• Ask for a move-in inspection report to document the property’s condition before you move in.

Doing this protects you and helps make sure you won’t be charged for damage you didn’t cause when it’s time to move out.

Final Thoughts

Renting a home is a big decision. By inspecting the floors, walls, ceilings, doors, windows, HVAC, plumbing, electrical system, appliances, smoke detectors, and checking for pests and parking, you protect yourself and make a smart choice.

Don’t rush the process. Take your time, ask questions, and only move forward if everything meets your needs. It’s better to be safe now than to deal with problems later.