A viewing is your chance to check the room is right for you, and that the landlord is genuine. Take this list with you, or open it on your phone.
Money
- How much is the rent, and is it weekly or monthly?
- Which bills are included: gas, electricity, water, internet, council tax?
- Is there a deposit or rent in advance? Which scheme will the deposit be protected in?
- When is rent due, and how do I pay it?
The room and the house
- Is the room furnished? What stays and what's mine to bring?
- How many people share the kitchen and bathroom?
- Is there somewhere to store food, laundry facilities and somewhere to dry clothes?
- Does the heating work well? Ask to see the boiler and look for damp or mould.
- Are there smoke alarms, and a carbon monoxide alarm near any gas appliance?
- Does my door lock? Who else has a key?
The people and the rules
- Who else lives here? Does the landlord live here too?
- Are there house rules about visitors, overnight guests, quiet hours, smoking or pets?
- Who looks after cleaning in the shared areas?
- How do I report a repair, and how quickly is it fixed?
The agreement
- Is it a tenancy or a licence? (See your rights in a shared house.)
- How much notice do I need to give if I want to leave?
- Can I see the gas safety certificate?
- When could I move in?
If the room comes with coaching or support
- What does the coaching cover, and how often will I meet my coach?
- Is it the same person each time?
- How long can I stay, and what help is there to move on?
Warning signs
Walk away if you're asked to pay before viewing, the landlord won't show you round in person, or you're pressured to decide on the spot. Read how to spot rental scams.