Questions to Ask When Evaluating a Rental Property

Searching for that ideal home, especially one that meets the bare minimum criteria at the right price, can be an exhausting albeit exciting experience; an experience that we all have to face at some point. Finding that dream property can be especially challenging in dense urban areas like London, where demand exceeds supply. It is easy to get swept away during a viewing in a fast, competitive market, and understandably you would like to secure the property straight off the bat. However, it is important to come to a viewing armed with the relevant questions, so that you don't regret your decision (and contractual obligations) later on. Letting agents and landlords won't always divulge essential information about the property without being probed, so it is crucial that you know what to ask, and what to look out for.

Before you compile your list of questions, it is important to consider your "needs" over your "wants". Must-haves that you can't go without, say easy access to public transport, will be the deciding factors, whereas "would-likes", like extra parking, for instance, can be compromised on. You need to figure out what is relevant to you, and what would qualify as a deal-breaker, to consider your list of questions that will shape your decision.

Bills, Bills, Bills

Having the perfect property in a prime location means little if you can't meet your financial obligations in the long run. Many prospective renters often under-budget, as they don't foresee hidden or easily overlooked costs, like council tax, utilities, and so on. It is worth your while to ask for the average utility expenditure to count that into your budget. Ask your would-be landlord or agent if any of the utilities are included in the rent. For instance, you don't have to use the same energy supplier. You are perfectly entitled to shop around for the best deals at your discretion.

Energy Efficiency

In conjunction with bills and hidden costs, you'd want to consider the energy efficiency rating. The EPC (energy performance certificate) is key. The landlord must provide you with a copy of the certificate when you move in, but if the rating is less than favourable, it will be of little help to you after you have signed the tenancy agreement. Ask for a glimpse at the certificate during the viewing. Properties should be rated "E" or higher. The better the rating, the less you will spend on utility bills.

Any Extra Inclusions

This is an important question to ask if you are viewing a furnished property. What you see at the viewing is not necessarily what you will get. Some items might belong to the current tenants, so don't assume. You need to know what you need to bring with you, and this stretches beyond the trimmings. Find out if you will need a washing machine or a fridge, or if you can replace the current appliances with your own. Landlords should not have a problem with the latter, as long as you don't make away with their possessions while doing so.

Local Conveniences

No matter how perfect or pretty the property, if it is not close to your local must-have amenities, you will only find yourself frustrated in the long run. Ask for local area information, and do the relevant research yourself as well. Access to local transport routes, schools, gyms, and shops are all key features to consider apart from the home itself.

Know Thy Neighbour

You know your expectations about the lifestyle you'd want, so it helps if the overall neighbourhood is in line with your vision. Agents and landlords should generally divulge information regarding neighbourly disputes, but it can easily be overlooked. Enquire about the neighbours, and ask upfront if there are any notable disputes to be aware of.

When the Sun Goes Down

While you'd want to know what the people are like who live next to you, you also don't want to forget to ask about the local nightlife. If you are young and bursting with energy, you may want easy access to pubs and clubs, while others may find the hustle and bustle annoying. Well-lit streets are a bonus in safety features, but a nightmare if you don't have proper curtains. In addition to making your enquiry, you should consider swinging by the area at night to get a true feel for it.

Tenancy Deposit Protection

It is common practice that you pay a deposit equivalent to 6 weeks rent on the property as a security against damages or rent in arrears. If you were a model tenant, your deposit is due back to you at the end of the contract. However, your deposit needs to be placed in an approved security deposit scheme, and you are well within your rights to ask about the proposed scheme. There have been cases where the landlord lost the deposit because the managing agency responsible went bankrupt.

Keeping Pets & Redecorating

Pets and decorating are only mentioned in the same breath because landlords can be very strict or lenient on the matter. You need to know where you stand from the beginning, especially if your pet needs to move with you. Landlords may change their opinion about decorating over time if you prove to be a reliable tenant, but that is not a given. If you don't like the current style of the property and have any plans to alter it according to your taste, it is better to be upfront from the get-go. Something as insignificant as hammering nails into the wall without permission can see you forfeiting your deposit.

What About Storage?

People often overlook adequate storage space for their belongings, assuming they can make space. You have to consider this realistically, as there is only so much you can work with. If you are in need of extra storage, you will have to ask the landlord's permission to put up shelves or rails. Alternatively, you can bring your own movable wardrobes and free-standing closets, as long as they will fit into the space provided.

Anything Else You Need to Know

When it comes to rental queries, there is no such thing as an obvious question. Sure, you will know how much rent will be in advance, and you should have a good idea on the contract duration, but when there is an inkling of doubt, ask. You should also consider inquiring about extras like a stable internet connection if that ranks highly on your list, and what the landlord's responsibilities are towards maintenance. The list is by no means exhaustive, and there are many topics to consider. What is important is that you are thorough in your curiosity, no matter how irrelevant your questions may seem. You are potentially looking at your future home so don't leave anything up to speculation.