Blocked toilet or sink: what to try first
Stop the flow, use a plunger, and know when to call a plumber.
20 itemsStart
Moving into a rented flat: what to check and photograph
Record the condition on day one and test everything, so that you can get your deposit back.
Before you sign (6)
- Read the whole agreement before signingIn India, ask for a registered or stamped agreement where needed.
- Note the rent, due date, deposit, notice period and who pays which bills
- Get the landlord or agent's name, address and emergency number
- Check any deposit limit where you liveEngland: 5 weeks' rent if the yearly rent is under £50,000.
- Check your deposit is protected, if the law asks for itEngland: in an approved scheme within 30 days, with the details given to you.Open
- Ask for the safety papers that applyEngland: gas safety certificate, energy certificate and electrical report.
On day one: photograph (6)
- Take dated photos of every room from every corner
- Close-ups of marks on walls, floors and doors
- Inside the oven, fridge, cupboards and drawers
- Bathroom: tiles, sealant, and any signs of mould
- Meter readings for electricity, gas and water, with date and time
- Keys you received, and the number of each
Test everything (7)
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- All taps, shower and toilet flush, and look under sinks for leaks
- Hot water and heating or geyser
- Every light, plug socket and fan
- AC, fridge, washing machine and other appliances
- Window and door locks
- Mobile signal and internet
Put it in writing (4)
- Check the inventory against what is there, line by lineCorrect it before you sign and keep a copy.
- Email the photos and a fault list to the landlord or agent within a few days
- Ask when each problem will be fixed
- Keep rent receipts or bank proof
Settle in (5)
- Find the water stopcock, fuse box and gas shut-off
- Set up electricity, gas, water and internet in your name, if needed
- Get contents insurance
- Change your address with bank, work and on your ID
- Ask about bin days and building rules
Written from www.gov.uk
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