House-viewing checklist

- Do the light switches work?

- What's the decor like, both style and condition-wise?

- Is the flooring in good condition?

- Are there any signs of damp/mould/condensation? Even if you can't see any, can you smell it?

- Are there any exposed wires?

- If there are cracks in the walls/ceiling, are any big enough to put the edge of a 10p in?

- How many power sockets are there and are they conveniently located?

- Is there much storage?

- Are any fireplaces functional and do chimneys work?

- Are you very overlooked by neighbouring properties?
 

- Do they open and close easily?

- Single/double/triple glazing

- Are the frames in good condition?

- Do the locks work and are there keys?
 

- Do the taps work?

- How long does it take for hot water to come through? 

- How strong is the water pressure in the shower?

- Is there a bath? Is there a shaver socket?
 

- How much work/maintenance is required?

- How overlooked is it?

- What direction does it face? (South-facing gets the most sun)
 

- What are the general condition and age like?

- Are there any cracks?

- If the wall is rendered, it what condition is it in?
 

- Are there any missing/cracked tiles?

- Are the chimneys straight? 

- What state are the drains and gutters in - are they clean, new, moving the water correctly if it's raining?

- Do the fascias (wooden section under roof) look ok?
 

- Is there a garage, off-road or on-road parking?

- If on-road, will you need a permit?

- Are there working burglar and fire alarms?

- What broadband and TV connections are currently set up?

- What's the mobile phone coverage like? 

- Where is the boiler (and if it's in a bedroom, is it noisy)?

- How old is the boiler and what's it's service history?

- Is there much scope for extending/renovating/adding value?

- Is there a loft? If so, how easy is it to access and might there be scope to convert it in the future?

- When was the consumer unit/fuse box last checked, and how old is it? 

- Is it in a conservation area or a listed building? This might affect whether you can make changes.
 

- What is the property's energy performance certificate (EPC) rating?

- Can you see planning permission and sign-off documents for any work that’s been done?

 

- What’s the area like at rush hour, when the pubs close, at weekends and on weekdays?

- Public transport links

- Test the commute/school run during rush hour

- Local shops and amenities

For more information please check out our North Leeds suburb guides here.

- Is it leasehold or freehold?

- If leasehold, how many years are left on the lease? 

- How much is the service charge?

- What condition are the communal areas in?

- Is there any outdoor space and if so is it shared?

- What services, eg drainage, are shared?

- How much noise do you hear from the neighbours?

- Is there a residents’ committee?

- Will you need to contribute to a sinking fund?