In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, there is a blanket rule to have them installed in all properties. But because carbon monoxide can also come from gas or oil devices - including boilers - this provision should be tightened to protect tenants.
#BILLS TO PAY WHEN RENTING A FLAT UK WINDOWS#
But also make sure the appliances are clean and in good working order – and ask if the landlord will replace them if not.ĭo windows and doors open easily and close securely? Are there adequate locks on the doors? Do you have adequate escape routes in case of a fire?Īre smoke alarms fitted? And are they connected to the mains, or will you have to replace the batteries? If the property uses gas, is there a CO2 detector installed?Īll properties must have at least one smoke alarm installed on every storey of their properties.Ĭurrently, regulation in England around CO alarms is vague and potentially confusing: CO alarms are only required in rooms with 'solid fuel appliances'(eg a coal fire or wood burning stove). Letting agents should not be showing properties with damp or mould problems - and we know this happens more than it should.Ĭonfirm which white goods come with the property, including fridge, washing machine and dishwasher. Check the exterior of the propertyĪre the gutters or any pipes leaking? Are the walls or window frames cracked? Is there a garden or outdoor area you'll need to maintain? Check the fittingsĭo the taps work, both for hot and cold water? Is the water pressure high enough? Do all the light switches work? Are there enough electric sockets?Īre there any signs of pests, including mouse droppings, cracks or holes in the walls? When was the property last treated for pests? Are there signs of mould,particularly in damp areas such as the kitchen or bathroom? If there are any issues with the following, either make it a condition of the contract that they are fixed, or seriously reconsider your desire to rent that property. Home viewing tipsĪt each rental property viewing, take your time to check the property to make sure there are no problems.
It’s also prudent to know about any warning signs to look out for, and what level of detail you should be able to expect in response to important questions, so you can make an informed decision. You can’t always count on a letting agent to proactively offer all the information you need about your potential new home, so it’s important to have a bit of your own research under your belt. Searching for a place to live can be an exhausting undertaking, but going into property viewings armed with the right questions is essential.
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