Viewing a Property
Making a good first impression
Whether you stop by an open house or arrange a meeting time, viewing a property is your first chance to meet a prospective landlord in person. Make it count!
- Present a neat and clean appearance – consider dressing as you would for a job interview.
- Keep your appointments and be on time. If you cannot make an appointment, call to reschedule or cancel as soon as you know.
- Bring a copy of your Rental Application Packet. Be prepared to apply on the spot if you like the place.
Inspecting a rental
We understand that you may be eager to accept a rental at a glance, but it’s important to check it out first. This section includes things to look for when viewing a property, along with questions you might want to ask.
We’ve included several ideas of things you might want to ask a landlord or property manager. Review the full list, but if there are items that don’t apply to you (or questions already answered in the rental listing) feel free to omit them.
Initial questions
You can ask these questions while viewing the property, or during your initial contact with the landlord.
- How much is the deposit? Can it be paid over two months?
- How many tenants are allowed in the unit?
- Is subletting allowed if the landlord is notified?
- How long will the rental be available? Some landlords plan on renting only during the academic year. If you want to keep the rental over the summer, it’s better to know right away.
- Does the unit have off-street parking? How many parking spaces? Are parking permits required for street parking? If so, what is the cost?
Utilities and appliances
Things to look for:
Heat
Is there adequate, working heat? Space heaters as the only source of heat are not ok.
Electrical
There should be at least two outlets per room.
Water
There should be hot and cold running water from each faucet. Is the water pressure adequate?
Garbage
The landlord must provide one outside garbage can with a lid if your garbage service does not provide one.
Questions to ask about utilities and appliances:
- Are utilities included? If the rental is in shared housing, how are the utilities split?
- What type of heating does the unit have (forced air, wall furnace or other)? Gas or electric?
- What appliances are included? Are there washer/dryer hookups (if washer/dryer is not included)?
- Is the stove gas or electric?
Health, safety, and security
Things to look for:
Mildew/mold
Signs of mildew may suggest a leak or that the house is chronically damp. Remember mildew will increase during the winter season. Some people are allergic to mold, and mold can be difficult to remove and control.
Leaks
Check for signs of water damage on ceilings, walls, baseboards, under sinks, and in closets.
Bathroom
There must be either a window that opens or a fan for ventilation. Make sure the toilet flushes adequately and does not “run.”
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
There should be smoke alarms on each floor and in each bedroom, and carbon monoxide alarms on each floor.
Stove and oven
Turn on each burner and the oven to verify that they work properly and that there are no gas leaks.
Deadbolts
The landlord is required to provide a deadbolt lock on each main swinging door.
Questions to ask about health, safety, and security:
- Were the locks changed after the previous tenants moved out?
- Is there outdoor lighting?
What happens next?
If the property seems like a good fit for you, let the landlord or property manager know you would like to apply. Have your Rental Application Packet ready, and submit it the same day you view the property if possible.
But remember, applying does not guarantee that you will be offered the place, so continue your search until you have a signed rental agreement in hand!
