Moving to a Rented Property: Four Things You Must Check

Moving to a new house signifies the start of a new chapter in your life. Whether you are moving across town or country, it is a unique experience for all involved.  

It is common to experience a whole host of emotions when moving to a new place. Excitement and nervousness are entirely normal; you are only human after all!  

While we recognise you will have your time consumed by other elements of moving to a new place, there are some things that we felt were worth mentioning. Mainly, if you are moving to a property that you are renting, there may be some extra checks that you need to do to protect yourself and anyone else living with you.  

Read on to learn more about these things and implement them into your stringent list of checks!  

1. Ask About Pet Ownership: There will be some pet parents reading this who are moving to a rented property in the future, or even those renting currently who are interested in bringing a four-legged friend home. While some landlords are easy-going regarding pet ownership, you must ensure you run things by them first. When viewing a property, or even when booking to view a property, ask questions of them. Will they allow pets in the property? If so, what are the conditions you must stick to? Make a note of what is said and get it in writing if possible.  

• Safety Checks and Documents: It goes without saying, but to ensure the property you are moving into is safe in every aspect, you must check there are relevant safety documents present. This shows that any plumbing, gas, and electric checks have been completed by a trained professional. If unsure, contact your landlord or letting agent and ask for a copy of the landlord EICR report. This can also be acquired through companies like Electrical Safety Certificate. These reports are assessed every few years; you can rest assured the information you are being given is up to date.  

• Assess Condition of Any White Goods: If you are renting a part- or fully- furnished property, you must ensure you check these appliances over as well. The condition of these appliances will naturally deteriorate over time. While that is the case, you want them to last as long as possible before anything of the sorts happens. Check necessary pipes and fittings, and if anything, give them a test run to quash any worries or concerns you might have. Double-check with your landlord that they will cover any repairs or whether the responsibility falls with you. Naturally, it tends to depend on whether the breakdown was an accident or on purpose. Take care with handling the appliances, and you should be fine!  

• Conduct An Inventory: Take note of anything that was in the property before you moved in, as well as any existing issues. This takes the liability away from you and will ensure you get as much of your deposit back at the end of your tenancy. Taking photos as evidence is also a recommended thing to do. Not only will you be able to show friends and family where you will be living, but you have proof moving forward if you were to ever end up in a dispute with your landlord. Fingers crossed that is not the case!  

While these are but a handful of suggestions, we hope you feel enlightened on what you should check when moving to a rented property. Whether you are moving as a long-term plan or on a short-term basis, feel confident you will be protected in more ways than one.