Finding a new home can be challenging. However, before being smitten with your new apartment, apply the brakes and conduct some research. It will save you a ton of trouble in the future.
Why should one bother conducting inspections? They’re not only for landlords, though. As a renter, you want to be sure that you are not entering an unsafe or money-pit situation. Additionally, keeping a log of the property’s state when you move in will help you avoid disagreements when it comes time to vacate.
Table of Contents
1. The HVAC Situation
Nobody enjoys melting in the summer or freezing in the winter. Take a look at that thermostat while you are there. Turn up the heat and check the vents for warm air.
Ask the landlord about maintenance without holding back. Take it as a warning sign if they hesitate when asked when the system was last serviced.
If you’re curious about professional services, look into Duct Cleaning Sherwood Park for more info on maintaining healthy airflow.
2. Kitchen Appliances
A dysfunctional kitchen is a recipe for frustration. That fancy stainless steel fridge? Make sure it keeps things cold. Give the stove a quick test run. And yes, even check if the dishwasher sounds like it’s about to take off.
You can’t whip up a five-course meal during a viewing, but you should at least be able to turn things on and off. Ask about the appliances’ ages too, as it will give you an idea of what you are in for.
3. Plumbing
During a tour of a rental apartment with the property owner, you might not remember to flush the toilet or check the bathroom faucets, particularly if there aren’t any obvious issues like cracks inside the toilet or an absence of a faucet handle. If you do end up renting a house, though, you will want to ensure that the plumbing work is great.
Turn on the faucets and test how fast they respond, assess the water pressure and adjust the temperature.
4. Walls, Floors, and Ceilings
Time to channel your inner home inspector. Scan those floors for any funky dips or cracks. Walls shouldn’t look like a maze of cracks, and ceilings shouldn’t have those tell-tale water stains.
A few nail holes? No problem. But if the walls look like they have been in a boxing match, that is cause for concern. And always, always look up – water damage on the ceiling could spell big trouble.
Wrapping It Up
One may be tempted to ignore minor details when they are in a desperate search for a new location. But, those “small” things have the potential to gradually escalate into truly painful headaches.
Don’t let a lovely layout or décor to make you ignore possible issues. Examine the structure’s foundation closely. Yes, looking around during a viewing may feel odd, but it’s far better than having a terrible rental experience.
Never forget that exercising prudence now can save you a great deal of trouble (as well as money) later.