What to ask, what to sign and what to photograph before you move into a rented flat.
A little care before moving in saves months of arguments later.
- Ask what the rent includes: service charge, gas, water and parking.
- Agree the advance (usually two months) and how it will be returned.
- Sign a written agreement with the notice period.
- Photograph every room, wall and fitting on the first day.
- Test the taps, switches, gas and the generator line.