Renting a new place is exciting, until you move in and realise it’s not quite what you expected. Maybe the heating doesn’t work, there’s mould hiding behind furniture, or the “quiet neighbourhood” turns out to be next to a 24-hour construction site.
No one wants nasty surprises after signing a lease. That’s why it’s crucial to spot red flags before committing. A little detective work now can save you a whole lot of hassle later. Here’s how to spot a problem property before you get stuck in a rental nightmare.
Don’t Rush the Viewing
It’s easy to feel pressured when rentals are in high demand, but take your time at the viewing. Walk through each room carefully. Check for damp spots, strange smells, dodgy wiring, and poorly fitted windows.
Flush the toilet. Turn on the taps. Check that all the doors close properly. If anything feels off, ask about it. A good landlord will address issues before you move in – a bad one will brush them off.
Look Beyond the Surface
Some landlords get sneaky. A fresh coat of paint can hide damp patches. A strategically placed rug might be covering damaged flooring. That “brand-new oven” might not actually work.
Test everything. Open cupboards, check under sinks for leaks, and don’t be afraid to lift a rug or two. If the landlord races to stop you, that’s your first clue something’s up.
Check the Property Inventory Report
A property inventory report is your best friend when renting. It lists everything in the property, from furniture to fixtures, and records their condition. This isn’t just a boring checklist – it’s your proof if anything is already damaged before you move in.
If there’s no property inventory report, ask for one. If you spot anything missing from the report, flag it before signing. Otherwise, you could end up being blamed (and charged) for damage you didn’t cause when it’s time to move out.
Talk to Current Tenants (If You Can)
If the current tenants are there during the viewing, have a quick chat. They’ll tell you things the landlord won’t, like whether the boiler is unreliable, how quickly repairs get sorted, or if the neighbours are constantly throwing parties at 3 AM.
No tenants around? Take a stroll in the area and check out local reviews. Sometimes, a quick Google search will tell you everything you need to know.
Trust Your Gut
If something feels off, it probably is. A great rental shouldn’t just look good – it should feel right. If the landlord seems shady, the letting agent is avoiding your questions, or there are too many small issues adding up, walk away. There’s always another place.
Final Thoughts
Signing a lease is a big commitment. By taking your time, checking for red flags, and making sure a property inventory report is in place, you can avoid rental disasters before they happen. A little extra effort now means a stress-free stay later – and that’s worth every second.