Your ultimate house viewing checklist

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement when viewing a house and forget to check the important stuff. No one wants to end up in a damp, overpriced shoebox with dodgy electrics and a dodgier landlord. Here’s how to house view like a pro and make sure you get a place that works for you.

1. Do your homework before the viewing

Before you even step inside, do a bit of research. Check out the location on Google Maps to see if it’s close to uni, bus routes, and shops. Look at rental prices in the area to make sure you’re not getting ripped off. If the house has been listed for a while, it might be worth asking why.

2. First impressions matter

When you arrive, take a step back and really look at the place. Does it look well-maintained? Are there bins overflowing outside? Is the street safe and well-lit? If something feels off, trust your gut.

3. Inside the house – The essentials

Once inside, don’t just glance around – really check things over. Here’s a checklist to keep you on track:

Ultimate house viewing checklist

✔ Damp & mould – Look for black spots on walls and ceilings, especially in corners and around windows. A musty smell is also a giveaway.

✔ Windows & locks – Make sure all windows open, close, and lock properly. Security is key!

✔ Heating & hot water – Ask about the boiler and test the radiators – you don’t want to freeze in winter.

✔ Water pressure – Run the taps and shower to check the flow. No one wants a trickle of water when they’re trying to wash their hair.

✔ Sockets & electrics – Are there enough plugs in convenient places? Do lights flicker?

✔ Appliances – Fridge, oven, washing machine – do they work? If they look ancient, ask if they’ll be replaced.

✔ Furniture condition – Check for broken chairs, sagging mattresses, or wobbly tables. If anything needs replacing, get it in writing.

✔ Noise levels – Listen out for noisy neighbours, traffic, or thin walls. Visit at different times of the day if possible.

✔ Storage space – Where will you put your clothes, books, and food? A tiny cupboard for five people won’t cut it.

✔ Internet connection – Ask the current tenants about the WiFi speed and reliability.

✔ Fire safety – Are there smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire exits? Safety first.

✔ Pests – Keep an eye out for mouse traps, droppings, or any signs of uninvited guests.

4. Ask the right questions

The landlord or letting agent will expect questions – so don’t be shy! Here are some key ones to ask:

• Who is responsible for repairs, and how quickly are they done?
• What’s included in the rent? (Bills? WiFi? TV licence?)
• What’s the deposit, and is it protected in a tenancy deposit scheme?
• How long is the contract, and are there any break clauses?
• Are you allowed to put up posters or add personal touches?
• How is rubbish collected in the area?

5. Check the contract

If you like the house, don’t rush into signing anything without reading the contract properly. Look out for dodgy clauses, high fees, or unfair rules. If something doesn’t seem right, get advice from SUSU's housing support services.

6. Trust your instincts

Even if a house ticks all the boxes, it has to feel like a place you’ll be happy living in. If something feels off, don’t ignore it – keep looking until you find somewhere you’re completely comfortable with.

Stick to the checklist, ask the right questions, and don’t settle. You’ll be spending a lot of time in your student house – make sure it’s one you actually want to live in!