5 Things to Ask Before Renting a Home

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So, you think you’ve found the perfect rental property and you’re already measuring the windows to make sure the curtains you’ve chosen will fit. Finding a new home can be extremely exciting, so it’s easy to get caught up in the moment. However, before you sign any documents and start organising the removals company, it’s important to make sure that the property is as good as it seems. To make sure the property is perfect for you, there are several questions you need to ask before you sign on the dotted line. Below is a list of some of the most important questions you need to ask your new landlord before you agree to renting a home:

Renting a Home

1.     How Much is the Rent?

Although this might seem like an obvious question, it’s important to understand exactly how much money you’ll be expected to pay each month. You also need to find out when the rent is due and whether there is any grace period should you be unable to pay.

2.     What’s Included in the Rent?

What you see on a viewing may not be what you get. For example, the property may be furnished when you view it, but it may be unfurnished when you move in. Fully-furnished, part-furnished or unfurnished are the three different possibilities when it comes to renting a property. Make sure you find out exactly what’s included, so you know what items you will need to bring. This doesn’t simply include furniture; it also includes things like the fridge, washing machine, shower curtains and blinds.

3.     Who is Responsible for What?

Whether you’re interested in renting a flat that has communal areas such as hallways, stairs, courtyard and kitchen or you’re going to live in a house share, this question is extremely important. Knowing who is responsible for what is key to dealing with any future conversations with your landlord or housemates. After all, it’s always good to know where you stand.

Another thing you need to consider is whether the tenancy agreement commits you to maintain any areas of the property e.g., the garden. You may be expected to do things like cut the grass and take care of the plants. Either way, you need to know what’s what.

4.     Can I Decorate?

Decorating a rented property can always cause issues between a landlord and a tenant. Lots of tenancy agreements in the UK state that you are unable to re-decorate (or even repaint) the property. Not only that, but some also go as far as saying you’re not allowed to put up shelves or change the look of the property at all. If this bothers you, then you need to discuss this matter with your landlord.

5.     Has the Property Been Safety Checked?

Before you move into a rental property, it’s important to check that the landlord has completed a safety check of the property. They should have an up-to-date Electrical Inspection Certificate for the property. This certificate ensures the safety of electrical installations such as lighting and sockets when new tenants move in.

An EICR can be completed by any qualified electrician or engineer. Trade Facilities Services provide electrical certificates for landlords. They give landlords and tenants the peace of mind they need that the property is electrically safe. Visit electricalsafetycertificate.co.uk to find out more.

Renting a home can be extremely exciting. We all know how it feels to finally find a home that you love and can afford. However, to make sure that the property really is the perfect one for you, you need to ask the landlord a few questions first. Make sure you get answers to all your questions before you sign any tenancy agreements.