Property Viewing Checklist - a handy guide for you

It’s all too easy to get swept up in the excitement when you are viewing potential new homes, so to help you here’s a checklist of things to look out for / ask when viewing a property.

So you don't forget on the day Zoopla has also put together this really handy “keep in your pocket” PDF checklist you can print out and tick off whilst at viewings. 

Firstly – what does the exterior look like?

• What year was the property built?
• Is the brickwork, render or finish in good condition?
• Are there any damaged or loose roof tiles you can see?
• Is the chimney working? And ok condition?
• How do the fascias look? (These are the wooden / UPVC bands under the edge of the roof)
• Are any drains and gutters blocked or leaking?
• Are the windows single, double or triple-glazed?
• Are there any large trees close to the building that could cause a hazard?

Secondly – inside the property

• What do the window frames look like?
• Are there any signs of damp, mould, condensation or woodworm?
• Any major cracks in walls or ceilings?
• How does the flooring look?
• Is the decor in good condition?
• Is there much storage space?
• Is the loft insulated and accessible?
• Are the fireplaces decorative or in working order?
• Are the curtains and blinds all in working order?
• How much privacy do you have from the street and garden?

 Electrics / Plumbing 

• How old is the boiler?
• How old are the electrics, plumbing and heating systems?
• Any exposed wires?
• Are the light switches all working?
• How many power sockets are in each room and are they in handy places?

Kitchen & Bathroom 

• What is the water pressure like?
• What is the condition of the units and worktops?
• Is there space for a dining table and chairs? If not, is there a dining room?
• Are the oven and hob powered by gas or electric?
• Are there fitted white goods included? What condition are the white goods in? (This is things like the dishwasher, washing machine and tumble drier)
• Inspect every inch of the bathroom(s) - are there any signs of damp or mould?
• What is the condition of sealant and grouting?
• How long does it take for hot water to come through?
• What type of shower is fitted?
• Is there an extractor fan?
• Is there a shaver socket?
• Does the toilet flush?

Bedrooms

• How much space is there for a bed?
• How many power sockets are there?
• Is there a built-in wardrobe or enough space for a standalone one?

We hope you found this useful, look out for our next article in this series, What to ask your Estate Agent? and What to look out for in your new potential local areas.

Thanks for reading. 

Bristol Property Centre