House-Viewing Checklist: What to Look For

When you’re checking out a potential a new home, there are a few things you should be on the lookout for.

Whether it’s signs of structural problems or just little annoyances that would make life more difficult, you should pay attention to the details. They’ll help you work out whether the house is a real contender or not.

We’ve put together this handy checklist to help you remember what to take notice of during house viewings.

Kitchen

• Do the taps work?
• Do the drains run freely?
• Is there enough storage?
• Are the cupboards in good condition?
• Will the white goods be included in the sale?
• Is the boiler located here?
• Is there any sign of leaking under the sink?

Living Room/Dining Room

• Are there enough plug sockets?
• Is there enough space for a table and chairs?
• Is the flooring in decent condition?
• Is there a working fireplace?
• Where are the radiators located?

Bathroom

• Is there any mould or any fresh paint that could be concealing mould?
• Do the taps work?
• Is the water pressure strong enough?
• Is the bath panel loose?
• Is there ventilation?
• How long does it take for the water to heat up?
• Is there a shaver socket?

Bedrooms

• Are they big enough?
• Is there built-in storage?
• Which way do the bedrooms face?
• Will the sun hit the bedrooms in the morning or the afternoon?
• Will the curtains or blinds be included in the sale?

Garden

• Is there any Japanese Knotweed?
• Are there any big trees whose roots could cause foundational problems?
• What direction does the garden face?
• What time of day will the garden get the sun?
• Does it need a lot of maintenance?
• Are the fences in good condition?
• Which fences will you be responsible for?

Entire Property

• Is there mobile signal throughout the property?
• Are there any smart home features?
• Is there a burglar alarm?
• Is there private parking?
• Is there scope for renovation or extending?
• Could you add value to the home or is there a ceiling?
• Is there loft access?
• What is the condition of the windows and their frames?
• Are the doors in decent condition?
• Is the home overlooked by neighbouring properties?
• Are there any cracks in the walls?
• If you’re visiting on a rainy day, can you see any leaks?
• Has the boiler been properly maintained and serviced?

Local Area

• Do the neighbours take care of their properties?
• What’s the crime rate?
• Are any new developments planned?
• Is there a pub or a school nearby?
• What’s the noise level like at different times of the day?
• What’s rush hour like?
• Do parents park on the street for the school run?