Take your time throughout each rental property screening to ensure that there are no issues. If any of the following issues exist, either make it a condition of the contract that they be fixed, or seriously reconsider your wish to rent that home.
- — Check the exterior: are the gutters or any pipes leaking? Are the walls or window frames cracked? Is there a garden or outdoor area you'll need to maintain?
- — Test the fittings: make sure the taps work, for both hot and cold water. Test the water pressure and see if all the property's light switches work.
- — Check for mould and pests: are there any signs of pests, including mouse droppings, cracks or holes in the walls?
- — Inspect the appliances: confirm which white goods come with the property, including fridge, washing machine and dishwasher.
- — Look for smoke alarms and CO2 detectors: are smoke alarms fitted?.
- — Think about safety and security: do windows and doors open easily and close securely?