Renting Property
Getting Organised - Flat Hunting Basics
Finding the perfect property doesn’t happen by chance. The
ability to determine your needs, identify problem areas and ask
the right questions will help you make the right choice before you
sign the tenancy agreement. Remember, once you have signed on the
dotted line you are typically committed for a year.
Determine your needs
Once you have determined your needs, searching for an property
will be much easier.
Price range:
Price is one the most important considerations. Decide how much
you can afford or want to spend. Remember to factor in utility costs,
parking and your usual monthly bills. Knowing your price range from
the outset will focus your search, saving you time.
Location:
It is important that the neighbourhood you choose to live in is
well suited to you and your family. Consider the distance from your
work place or schools. Do you mind a long commute every day? Is
public transportation easily accessible? Is it a high crime area?
Is it close to amenities such as local shops, doctor offices and
the post office?
Type of property:
Consider the size of your family and the space you require for
your furniture and other possessions. Will you be happy in 500 square
feet or will you need 1000? Will a one-room studio be adequate or
do you require a one, two or three bedroom flat? Typically, the
larger the flat the higher the rent will be.
Features and amenities:
Determine what features you need or desire in your future home.
Is an en suite or on-site laundry facility important or do you mind
going to a laundrette? Does the building feature security features
such as porter, video cameras or a controlled-access public entry?
Do you want the convenience of a dishwasher, an on-site gym or pool,
a balcony etc.?
Inspect the property
Never rent a property site-unseen. It is essential that you tour
the property and examine it closely for problems. Areas that warrant
inspection include:
The building:
What is the state of repair outside and inside? Are common areas
kept clean and in good repair? Are the walls in need of paint? If
maintenance appears to be lacking it could be a sign of poor building
management.
The property:
Upon entering the proprty take note of general appearance and upkeep.
Are the carpets or flooring worn? Are the walls cracked or in need
of paint? Is there staining on the roof or walls (an indication
of a water leak). Check all light switches and outlets to ensure
they are working. Poor general maintenance may also be an indication
of poor maintenance in other areas.
Doors and windows:
Are there secure locks, a peephole and security locks on all outside
doors? Check for drafts around windows, doors, light switches and
electric outlets. If you are paying for heating, a drafty property
could be cold and costly in winter.
The kitchen:
Check taps for water pressure and hot water. Examine the base of
the taps for leaks and look under the sink for signs of water damage.
Turn on the hobtop and oven and check that the refrigerator, dishwasher
and any other appliances are in good working order.
The bathroom:
Check taps for water pressure and hot water. Examine the base of
the tap for leaks and look under the sink and around the bath or
shower cubicle for signs of water damage. Press gently on tiles.
If the tiles move, it could be a sign of water damage in the wall
behind the tiles. Flush the toilet to ensure it drains properly.
Questions to ask before you sign the tenancy
agreement.
If you have found an property that fits your needs you should ask
the landlord about important details regarding conditions of the
agreement and building regulations. Remember, the agreement is for
your protection too. Ensure that any verbal promises are also included
in the agreement. Get it in writing.
How long is the agreement?
(Typically six months short term contract, although shorter periods
including month to month are available.)
Can I sublet the apartment if my circumstances change before the
tenancy period is over?
How much do you require for a deposit?
Can I have roommates?
Are any utilities included in the cost of rent?
What about parking?
Is there special building rules regarding quiet times, pets etc.?
What is the procedure for obtaining repairs to the property?
Is emergency maintenance available 24 hours a day?
What maintenance (if any) am I responsible for?
What changes can I make to the property (paint, wallpaper, carpeting,
pictures or shelves that attach to the wall)?
When is the property available?
When can I move in?
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