8 Questions to ask at a House Viewing

Matt | May 7, 2012 | 0 Comments

1. Is the flat furnished, or part-furnished?

Rental properties will be fully furnished or – more likely – part-furnished or unfurnished. If you have your own furniture, you obviously won’t want to move into a place that’s furnished, or you’ll need to make arrangements with the landlord. Conversely, if you don’t have a bean, you’ll save a fortune by moving somewhere with tasteful furniture already in place.

2. Are any bills included?

Some rental properties will include water rates and perhaps also heating costs. This is more likely in a communal block, or if you’re renting rooms in a large shared house. It’s worth asking the question as this could have a big impact on your monthly outgoings.

3. What is the council tax band?

You can pay either monthly or annually but the amount will vary depending on the location and value of the property.

4. How much is the deposit?

The deposit you have to pay to secure the property and as security will be at the discretion of the landlord and the estate agent. A lot of agencies will ask for the equivalent of six weeks or two months’ rental to be paid in advance, along with the first months’ rent. This is a lot of money so make sure you consider this when you start looking for properties.

5. What is the contract term?

Both landlord and tenant have get-out clauses and these usually kick in after six months or a year on a standard rental contract. But always check the specific rental terms for the property you’re viewing before you go ahead and make a decision.

6. Is there parking?

Not many students own cars but if you’re lucky enough to have your own set of wheels then parking should be a priority. Some properties will have allocated parking on site, whilst others will be subject to parking permits or running the gauntlet for spaces on the road.

7. What’s public transport like?

This is essential to know if you’re going to be studying or working in town. Check out where the nearest tube or train station is and what the local bus services are like. It’s all very well living in a great flat but if it takes you half a day to get anywhere, it’s not worth it. We always have property to let in Cockfosters and surrounding areas with a journey time to central London of around 25 minutes via the Piccadilly Line.

8. What’s the security like?

If the property is in a communal block, check out what security is in place: are there secure locks on the doors? Does your property have its own entrance and separate security measures? Are there window locks? If the property is on the ground floor, there should be even more locks and security measures in place.

Written by Justin Burns MRICS of Peter Barry Estate Agents

Tags: housing, property, student accommodation