What to look for in a flat

Bendybops19

Hi, i am going to view a flat/apartment tonight with my bf.

What should we be looking for? As we arent buying i guess we dont need to worry about structural problems, but is there any thing we should keep an eye out for?

I have looked at the area already and its very nice, hopefully if we can sort out our finances to afford it, it will be a great place to live.

fluffymuffin

hello - Have rented a fair bit when I was ay uni and whilst trying to buy our house.

Few things I would ask to see such as sopies of gas safety certificates which should be up to date, have alook around generally (especially if its furnished) at back of applicances to make sure the wiring etc looks safe. Look for any obvious signs of damp etc and the general condition of the place.

Also I would get a copy of the contract to have a look at. If it is the standard letting contract then you should be ok - unless there are additional clauses at the end which look a bit ridiculous - if its a non-standard contract drawn up by the firm then I would go and get it checked out by someone with legal experience. We had to let flats go becasue they have things like being responsaible for contributing for the upkeep of the propety like guttering and roofing etc - clearly not good! - or being jointly and severally responsible for rent so bascially if you are in a group signing the contract and someone doesnt pay the landlard can make the other pay the difference.

Also make sure you get an inventory of goods from them before moving in - this will stop them trying to keep back a deposit when you move out for things that were never there,m and take some pictures when you move in in case they try to claim you have wrecked the place.

Try and check out the landlord ask if you can speak to other tenants or former tenants if possible to find out what they are like.

and last but not least - look at access - two of my mates rented a gorgeous flat on the 4th floor but the stair case was too narrow to get any furniture up other than flat pack! They spent a month living with a futon for bed and sofa and moved out! (quite funny though looking back)
Good luck

Pal

Ask for a draft contract before you hand over any money at all, even for a deposit. The last thing you need is to hand over money and then find that the contract terms are unreasonable.

cazzybabe

May be worth checking that there is no service charge or ground rent payable before you start your budgeting.

Bendybops19

Well not to worry, was as tiny as could be!! Def not worth the money.
Never thought of ground payment! I think this place prob would have had it as it was built like a little close with lots of tree's and plants etc.