Checks to do when buying a house

ruf_ha11

We have bought a house in Scotland and are due to complete/ move in 2 months. One condition on the missives is that central heating is in working order and if it isn't we have 5 days to raise this issue. 
Would people normally get a plumber in to check the central heating when moving in? first time buyer so not sure what is the norm.

Also wandered if people would normally get locks changed? or if I'm being too cautious. It's been rented out prior to us buying if that would make any difference. 

Thanks 

BarelySentientAI

It seems very common to recommend changing the locks.

I never have.

theartfullodger

If rented out it would need an annual gas safe certificate so more likely to be okay than an owner occupier.

IIRC a standard Scottish condition 

Go sit in your car about 50 metres away Friday and Saturday 8pm to 11pm to check on "sociable" neighbours...

After moving in expect mail for previous occupants (return, not known at this address)

Slainte mhath!

[Deleted User]

Don’t think there’s any ‘norm’ to follow, you should do as you feel you need to.

If you just want to check the heating works, just turn it on. No need for a plumber, unless you’re including how well the boiler works in your checks. Having rented for so long, I’m used to having the boiler checked and when I buy I’ll continue to do so, may as well be safe. As mentioned above, since it’s been rented out, more likely to be in good working order already.

Locks I would change. I’ve found spare keys for houses I used to live in (extras that I had had cut). I’ve not kept them knowingly, they just turn up in places (box of mixed screws and nails and other diy bits, for eg.). I just throw them away since I’ve no interest in politely breaking in to (what is now) somebody else’s home. At least with changing locks you can be more certain only you have keys for your home.

user1977

ruf_ha11 said:

One condition on the missives is that central heating is in working order and if it isn't we have 5 days to raise this issue. 
Would people normally get a plumber in to check the central heating when moving in? first time buyer so not sure what is the norm.

The condition in the missives extends only to "does it work". Which you can figure out yourself by turning it on.

Albermarle

user1977 said:

ruf_ha11 said:

One condition on the missives is that central heating is in working order and if it isn't we have 5 days to raise this issue. 
Would people normally get a plumber in to check the central heating when moving in? first time buyer so not sure what is the norm.

The condition in the missives extends only to "does it work". Which you can figure out yourself by turning it on.

If you literally have no idea about central heating, then take someone who does. You don't need to pay somebody to see if the heating works,

Bigphil1474

You might have to whack the thermostat up to full in July to test it is working, although it is Scotland so maybe not, but don't need more than that. I would change the locks in an ex rental, probably in any house tbh.