There are a number of key things to consider when looking for a good rental property in Leicester.
Planning out a strategy in advance will help to make the property search less stressful when it is time to attend viewings.
Here are some questions to consider before attending viewings:
- What is and is not included in the rent? Will you be required to pay separately for council tax and/or utility bills such as water, gas and electricity?
- How much is the tenancy deposit? Are both elements affordable for your budget in the longer term?
- Does the property come non-furnished, fully furnished or part-furnished? Is it important for you to be provided with white goods, appliances, crockery and cutlery, televisions, phone and internet connection points at the property as part of the agreement?
- How many bedrooms do you need?
- Is a separate dining room important to you?
- Would you like a garden or some kind of outdoor space/storage area or features such as conservatory, pond or decking? If so, it could be important to ask who will be responsible for outdoor maintenance – you, the landlord or a property maintenance company?
- What are your transport requirements? Do you ideally need to be close to a bus stop or railway station or perhaps within walking distance of your work/college/university? Will you require a parking space?
- Do you travel early in the morning or late at night? If so, you may wish to look around the neighbouring areas to see if they are well lit and safe enough for your requirements.
- Do you envisage having a shower room or a full-size bath?
- Do you prefer sash windows or double glazing? Are all the windows and doors secure and do they all come with usable locks?
Viewings
Viewing the property before signing the contract is a must, as photographs and the reality of what the property is actually like can sometimes be at variance. Inviting a friend or family member along to the viewing would ensure additional safety and an extra pair of eyes for spotting faults. The outside appearance of the property will offer a clue as to the overall condition and likely regularity of maintenance.
Living Safely
Checking for any signs of damp, subsidence, infestation, a secure roof, clear drains, and good-quality plumbing and electrical work will be essential for your safety and well-being whilst living in the property. It is now a legal requirement for landlords to install working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms at properties on behalf of tenants, so ensuring this has been done before moving in is a vital precaution. The landlord is also legally obliged to produce the gas safety record for the property upon request. It is also prudent to ask to see the electrical safety certificate too. These two matters, plus fire safety and home security measures, all need to be verified with the landlord prior to signing the tenancy contract, handing over the tenancy deposit and buying your contents insurance.
KeyWest Estate Agents would be pleased to help with all your rental requirements. Just call 0116 254 4555 or visit us today for appointments.
