Questions to Ask When Viewing a House

London’s rental market is a world of Georgian façades, converted lofts, and leafy crescents. But amid the excitement of picturing your life in a new flat, it’s easy to forget the finer points that will determine whether the place really suits you. As a boutique provider of rental apartments, we’ve helped countless Londoners navigate viewings. Below, we’ve made a list of questions for you to ask on your next viewing.

About the Property

• How long has the property been on the market?
  
• Is it managed by the landlord directly or through the agency?
  
• How old are the appliances (fridge, boiler, oven, washing machine)?
  
• Is the property furnished, part-furnished, or unfurnished — and can items be added or removed?
  
• When was the property last painted or refurbished?
  
• Are there any known maintenance issues?
  
• Which way does the flat face (important for light in winter)?
  
• Is the flat above/below any commercial premises (e.g., pubs, takeaways)?
  
• How good is the sound insulation between flats and from the street?
  

Costs & Contracts

• What is the exact monthly rent, and when is it due?
  
• How much is the deposit? Where will it be held (it must be in a government-approved scheme)?
• How long is the tenancy agreement? Can it be extended, and on what terms?
• Is there a break clause? If so, how does it work in practice?
• Will the rent be fixed for the duration, or can it be increased mid-tenancy?
• Is a holding deposit required to take the apartment off the market?
  

Utilities & Bills

• Which utilities are included in the rent (if any)?
  
• What is the council tax band and estimated cost?
  
• What’s the EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating?
  
• What is the average monthly heating/electricity bill for previous tenants?
  
• Which suppliers are currently used (gas, electric, internet)?
  
• Is there central heating? If electric, what type (storage heaters, panel heaters, etc.)?
  
• Is there a water meter?
  

Repairs & Maintenance

• Who is responsible for maintenance — the landlord or a property management company?
  
• What’s the average response time for repairs?
  

Building & Neighbourhood

• Who are the neighbours (families, students, young professionals)?
  
• Are pets allowed?
  
• Is there bike storage?
  
• How secure is the building (CCTV, door entry system, locks)?
  
• Are there any planned building works or nearby construction projects?
  

Moving In / Out

• What’s the earliest move-in date?
  
• Can you decorate or hang pictures?
  
• How is the inventory recorded at move-in?
  
• What cleaning standard is expected at the end of tenancy?
  

Extra tip: Take photos or videos during the viewing — especially of any wear, damp, or damage — so you can compare with the check-in inventory later.

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Final thoughts

Moving to a new home is as much about the questions you ask as the answers you receive. A good agent won’t mind a long list; in fact, it shows you’re serious about making an informed choice. By covering these points, you’ll protect yourself and ensure your new home fits your lifestyle, budget and peace of mind. At HomeQuarters, we pride ourselves on guiding renters through this process with warmth and expertise. Come armed with curiosity — we’ll handle the rest. Find your next apartment.

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