Renting a House Checklist in 2019

Looking for a home for rent can be a tiresome task. Going through the many rental property listings, ensuring that they fit your requirements and your budget and then moving in can be a long process. However, having a checklist that comprises of essential factors will make this task easier and more efficient. Every person will have different requirements and what they seek in a home varies from person to person. We have rounded up some tips that will help you pick the best home to rent. Read on to make your own checklist for renting a home.

House Location

The location of the home plays a crucial role in the wellbeing of your family. From having access to everyday essentials like shops, schools and hospitals to having good transport connectivity, the location of the property is a major factor to consider while renting a home. If you are already aware of the best residential localities, it is ideal to make a list of preferred locations in the order of your choice. If you are unaware of the localities, it is better to interact with a few local residents to get a glimpse of life in these locations. While the owner might be full of praise for what he has to offer, you must ensure that you are choosing a home which is located in a safe and well-facilitated neighborhood.

The reputation of the Builder/Owner

If you are opting for a rental apartment or villa, doing a background check about the builder and the owner is important. A good builder offers quality construction and well-planned spaces that you can live in and enjoy a hassle-free life. While you tick off the builder from your checklist, you must also check the reputation of the property owner. Factors like the owner's temperament, behavior with tenants, his past record with respect to renting properties and his authenticity must be verified through reliable sources. This background verification will help you to avoid unnecessary disputes related to money and home maintenance.

The legal status of the property

This is one of the most important factors to consider while you are renting a home. You may not be buying the property, but a home that comes with any legal issues can be an unpleasant affair. Making sure that the home you wish to rent is legally clear of any ambiguities must be on top of your checklist. Once you have zeroed in on a property, it is advised to seek legal help to verify the property status to ensure a pleasant stay in the home.

Maintenance and amenities

If you are planning to rent a home in a community housing project, it is important to check the amenities and maintenance services they offer. Most often, the addition of the maintenance cost can make the home more pricey. You must be informed about the various amenities offered in the house and whether you require them all. Some of the amenities may not come to your requirement, but you will still be liable to pay for the same. Hence it is strongly advised to add the amenities you prefer to the checklist and tick them off while looking for a rental home.

Electricity meter reading

This is another major factor that must be on your checklist while you are looking for a home to rent. The different meter readings for water, electricity etc. should be up-to-date and free of any dues. You should ideally check all pending monthly bills for the home to understand their authenticity. If you notice any concerns, you should inform the owner immediately to get it clarified.

Planning and construction quality

While you may have ensured that you are choosing a home from a good builder and a genuine owner, the structural factors of the home should also be considered. The quality of living spaces and natural ventilation should be looked into while shortlisting different homes. Apart from this, construction quality, finishes, age of the home, fittings used etc. should be checked to make sure that the home offers a comfortable living atmosphere. If you have any concerns or find any damages, it should be brought to the notice of the owner immediately. This will help to avoid any accusations that may arise at a later date. Apart from this, the strength of locks, sound wiring, water supply etc. must be checked to ensure that your home is safe and well-equipped.

Agreements and other documents

Now that you have gone through the points that you need to add to your checklist, the last and most important point to add is the verification of documents. Seeking legal help to understand the rental document and its finer nuances is essential. Understanding the rental clause and signing the documents will help you move into a home with much ease and peace of mind. Any ambiguities or terms that do not suit your preferences can be worked upon based on a discussion with the owner.

Insurance

Insurance is another factor that must appear on your checklist that will help you find the perfect rental home for you and your family. You must choose trusted rental insurance that will ease your burden in case of any damages or accidents. You can compare different insurance policies and choose what works best for you and your family.

Renting a home does not have to be tiring and time-consuming, and this can be achieved by making a checklist, as discussed above. The factors listed above are some of the core factors that determine the credibility of a rental home and more points can be added based on your individual needs and requirements.