Property Viewing: Focus On The Structure Than Its Aesthetics

The viewing of a property for rent or purchase is a serious business. When you view a property, give emphasis to its structural details than aesthetics.

Objective Viewing: To view a property, take someone with you. Another pair of eyes can see things more vividly and differently. May be they can spot things you missed.

• Gas Certificate: Insist to see the gas safety certificate for the property and confirm that it is renewed annually. Look for red warning stickers, if any stuck on gas appliances indicating gas problems in the past.

• Structural Defects: Pay attention to the property’s structure such as leaking roof, rotten windows, draughts, damp etc. These issues will become less important after the proposed Energy Performance Certificates (ECP) come into force covering all new tenancies.

• Energy Efficiency: While looking for Property for Rent in London, always check for double glazing windows. Their absence can impact the cost of utilities such as power bills.

• Dampness: Some clever landlords try to cover up dampness with a lick of paint. But the cupboards/wardrobes inside can reveal the tell tale signs. Open and see kitchen cupboards, opening windows, shape of the boiler to determine whether it looks like last legs will show the general state of repair of the property.

• TV Reception: Also verify the property can have television reception or cable or satellite TV is required. This is because terrestrial television is not received through aerial, cable or satellite TV will be the sole option.

• Broadband: Check the speed and availability of broadband for your internet requirements. Ensure that reception on mobile phone in all areas of the property. Simple things like not having enough electrical sockets could be annoying so it makes sense to check.

• EPC: Every landlord of the Rental properties in London is required to provide an energy efficiency certificate (EPC) for each property they rent out. The EPC has to be made available to the prospective tenant before the agreement is signed. That gives a fair idea of the probable costs of heating and preparedness in terms of insulation, double glazing, age of the boiler and energy rating of the refrigerator.

As the prospective tenant, you keep a notepad and pen and note down your findings as you walk around. Prepare a checklist for things to look for, and mentally frame the right questions that you want to as the estate agent.