When you have decided on properties that you like, you or your agent can arrange a viewing of the property.

Make the most of this opportunity by:

• Checking how well the property has been maintained – look at gutters, windows, roofs.
• Note how much storage space there is.
• Check to see how the place is heated and how well insulated it looks – this will affect your bills.
• Find out which furnishings will be in the property when you move in.
• Run the taps, bath and shower, and flushing the toilet. Do they all work? Ask to be shown that the heating and hot water works – and that windows open.
• Asking yourself how secure it feels? Is there access from rear gardens and alleys. What are the locks like?
• For flats, asking if you have your own secure post box. How clean are common areas – how often are they cleaned and by whom? How are any common grounds maintained? If there is a vehicle space, what’s parked in it now – if there is a rust heap, ask when it will be cleared.
• Finding out how close the transport links are – is it an easy commute to work or university and how close are other amenities, shops, etc?
• Visiting at different times to establish how safe/quiet the area is
• Talking to existing tenants (if they are still there) and neighbours. Ask them what it’s like to live there.
• Ask tenants what the landlord is like
• Ask if smoking is permitted in the building (generally it is in private spaces only)