What Should You Look for When Viewing a Rental Property? Checklist

Before you go to see it

• Ask for more photos and the floor plan, and check to see if the details in the listing (size, number of rooms, floor) match the actual conditions.
• Ask in advance about the total monthly cost: rent, common area fees, and utilities (on average). Compare this to the price listed in the ad.
• Ask to schedule a viewing during the day, because defects (mold, cracks) are more visible in sunlight. If possible, take a look at the neighborhood in the evening or on the weekend as well.
• Bring your phone to the photo shoot, a measuring tape, and, if possible, another person as well.

In the apartment

Status

• Check the walls, ceiling, and window frames for mold, water stains, cracks, and spots hidden under the paint.
• Open the windows and doors: check to see if the locks and shutters are working and if the windows close properly.
• Test the faucets and the shower: check the water pressure, whether hot water is coming out, and the drain. Check under the sink and the toilet for leaks.
• Turn on the lights and count the outlets: are there enough where you need them?
• Test the appliances (refrigerator, oven, washing machine, air conditioner) if they come with the apartment, and ask who is responsible for repairs.

Heating, Noise, Internet

• Ask what type of heating the property has (gas, district heating, electric), and request the bills for the last 12 months or the average cost.
• Pay attention to the noise: the street, neighbors, the elevator, restaurants. Stand still in silence for a few minutes.
• Check the cell phone and internet signal strength, and see which service providers are available.

What to Photograph

• Defects and damage, the meters (including their readings), the keys, and the furnishings. This will also be helpful later when filling out the move-in report.

In the building and the surrounding area

• Check the condition of the stairwell, the elevator, and the common areas, the security of the entrance, and where the trash collection is located.
• Ask for the building's rules and regulations, especially if you have a pet (see the article on pet-friendly rentals) or if you often have guests over.
• Check out the public transportation (bus stops, subway), the stores, the school or preschool, and whether the area has paid parking zones.
• If you can, talk to a neighbor or the building manager.

Questions for the Landlord

• How long is the contract valid, and what is the notice period for both parties?
• How much is the security deposit, and when and how is it refunded? (See the article on security deposits, common expenses, and utilities.)
• What do the common expenses and utility bills include, and what was the average amount last year?
• When and by how much can the rent be increased?
• Who arranges and pays for repairs, and who handles minor maintenance?
• Are pets, smoking, and hosting long-term tenants or guests permitted?
• Who can you contact if something goes wrong, and how long does it take for them to respond?

Before you sign

• Ask for identification and a recent copy of the title deed (issued within the last 30 days): this will confirm that the landlord is indeed the owner and whether there are any liens on the apartment. If there are multiple owners, ask if they all agree to the rental.
• Only sign a written contract that you have read. Make sure everything discussed verbally (furniture, repairs, keeping pets) is included in it.
• Prepare a handover report with photos and the meter readings.
• Pay the security deposit and the first month's fee upon signing the contract, either in person with a receipt or by bank transfer, and keep the receipt.

How Can You Avoid Scams?

• Do not transfer any money until you have seen the apartment and met with the landlord or their representative.
• Be wary if the price is unusually low, the landlord is abroad and says they’ll “send the key by mail,” or if they pressure you to pay a deposit.
• Check to see if the photos in the ad appear on other sites under a different title (reverse image search).
• Do not pay with gift cards, money transfer services, or to unknown accounts.

For Foreigners: What Else to Keep in Mind

• Ask in advance whether the landlord is willing to sign the statement required for registering your address. EU citizens need the landlord’s statement of consent to obtain a registration certificate, while non-EU citizens need proof of residence—such as a lease agreement—to obtain a residence permit.
• For non-EU citizens, housing must provide at least 6 m² of living space per person (the authorities may make exceptions in certain cases). If you’re moving in with others, be sure to calculate this when you view the property.
• Ask for a proper, written lease agreement, because the authorities accept this as proof of residence. You can find the details in the article on security deposits, common area fees, and utilities.

Important Information

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Before signing a contract, consult an attorney regarding your specific situation.

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