Going to your first house viewing can be exciting and overwhelming. There are so many things for you to consider and do while checking out the premises that you’re likely to forget some of the smaller but important things. Once you sign the lease, all problems inherent in the house that you did not raise to the landlord prior to signing become your responsibility. To prevent that and other issues you may have, here are just four things you should pay careful attention to:
1. Damages: Leave No Stone Unturned
Before signing the lease, investigate every single nook and cranny in the house. Look behind the cabinets and under the shelves. Every single scratch, hairline fracture, crack, and other defects must be documented. This means you take out your phone or a camera and start snapping pictures to indemnify yourself.
Steps to Document Damages:
· Thorough Inspection: Don’t rush through the inspection. Take your time to check every part of the house, including less obvious areas like behind appliances and inside cabinets.
· Photographic Evidence: Use your phone or a camera to take clear pictures of any damages you find. Make sure the photos are dated.
· Written Notes: Alongside the photos, jot down notes about the location and nature of the damage. This will help you remember and clearly communicate the issues to the landlord.
Example: You find a small crack in the living room wall and a scratch on the kitchen countertop. Take pictures and note these down. This way, you can avoid being blamed for these damages later.
Additional Consideration: Share the documented damages with the landlord or property manager immediately. Ask them to acknowledge these issues in writing to ensure you are not held accountable when you move out.
2. Bugs: Look for Unwanted Guests
Insects are a problem everywhere but unfortunately, not everybody takes care of this problem as regularly as needed. You’ll want to check in the dark places such as behind the fridge and cabinets. Use a flashlight to help. It may seem a little rude but it’s certainly preferable to suffering an infestation of ants or roaches in the future.
Steps to Check for Bugs:
· Use a Flashlight: A flashlight will help you see in dark corners and behind appliances where bugs often hide.
· Look in Key Areas: Focus on the kitchen, bathroom, and any places with water sources. Bugs are often attracted to these areas.
· Signs of Infestation: Look for droppings, dead insects, or any other signs of bug activity.
Example: While checking under the kitchen sink, you find evidence of roach droppings. Document this and raise the issue with the landlord before moving forward with the lease.
Additional Consideration: Ask the landlord about the pest control measures in place. A proactive approach to pest control can save you from dealing with infestations later.
3. Defects: Test Everything
Check that everything in the house is in working order. Play with the switches and turn the water faucets on and off. Make sure you have hot water and that the pressure is fine. Check for any damages in the electrical cables.
Steps to Identify Defects:
· Electrical Systems: Flip every switch, test outlets with a phone charger, and ensure there are no exposed wires.
· Plumbing: Turn on all faucets and showers. Check for leaks, ensure hot water is available, and that the water pressure is adequate.
· Appliances: Test all appliances provided with the rental, including the stove, refrigerator, and washing machine.
Example: You find that the bathroom faucet leaks and the stove burner doesn’t ignite properly. Make sure to note these defects and discuss them with the landlord.
Additional Consideration: Ensure any defects you find are fixed before you move in or get a written agreement that the landlord will address them promptly.
4. Neighbors: Know the Community
Your neighbors are really your eyes and ears to the neighborhood and your landlord. Does your landlord like to do spot checks on tenants without informing them? Your neighbors are likely to know. Are the walls so thin that you can hear everything your neighbors do or do dogs bark late at night? Your neighbors can help you here.
Steps to Learn About Your Neighbors:
· Talk to Residents: Politely introduce yourself and ask about their experiences living in the area. This can provide valuable insights into the community.
· Observe the Environment: Spend some time in the neighborhood at different times of the day to get a sense of noise levels and general atmosphere.
· Ask Specific Questions: Inquire about noise levels, landlord behavior, and any other concerns you might have.
Example: While chatting with a neighbor, you learn that the landlord is very responsive to maintenance requests, but the walls are thin, and noise can be an issue. This information can help you make an informed decision.
Additional Consideration: Establishing a good relationship with your neighbors early on can be beneficial. They can provide support and assistance, making your living experience more pleasant.
Bonus Tips: Cover All Bases
To ensure you don’t miss anything during your house viewing, here are a few extra tips:
Prepare a Checklist: Before you go, create a detailed checklist of everything you want to inspect. This will help you stay organized and ensure you don’t overlook anything.
Take Your Time: Don’t rush through the viewing. Take your time to thoroughly inspect the property and ask questions.
Bring a Friend: Having a second set of eyes can be incredibly helpful. They might notice things you missed and can provide a different perspective.
Example Checklist:
· Exterior Condition: Check for cracks in the foundation, condition of the roof, and overall maintenance of the building.
· Safety Features: Ensure there are working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and secure locks on doors and windows.
· Internet and Phone Signal: Test the internet speed and cell phone signal strength in different parts of the house.
Final Thoughts
By paying careful attention to these details during your house viewing, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure you’re making a well-informed decision. Remember, it’s better to ask too many questions and take too many photos than to miss something crucial. Happy house hunting, and may you find the perfect place to call home!