However you find a place to rent, it will be managed either directly by a landlord or more usually by a letting agent. Where the agent is acting for the landlord they have no contractual duty to you.
Before you arrange to go to view a property make a note of the name, address and telephone number of the vendor. Make sure you know how to get to the property. Try and view in daylight hours as then you can spot problems and also can see how much natural light enters the property.
It is a good idea to take someone with you, not just for security, but also to get a second opinion.
During the viewing you can take the opportunity to ask questions:
How is it heated and how much does it cost to heat?
What furniture/furnishings are included?
Are there any management or maintenance costs?
What are the neighbours like?
Ask about council tax rates
Have the electrical appliances been PAT tested? (Portable Appliance Testing)
Check the property-Is it clean and what type of condition is it in?
Also check and get assurances or certificates that the property complies with the following regulations:
- Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988, amended in 1993
- Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998
- Smoke Detectors Act 1991, (if the property does not have smoke alarms ask if they can be installed)
- Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994.
Your landlord should supply you with a copy of the Gas Safety Record to show a CORGI registered engineer has checked the boiler. |
