Property Inspection Checklist: 25 Things to Check Before You Pay

You usually get one real chance to look at a property before you commit a year's rent. Use it well. Take this checklist along, go in daylight, and do not feel rushed.

Outside and surroundings

1. Approach road. Is it motorable in the rainy season? Does water collect there?
2. Neighbourhood at different times. Visit once on a weekday evening if you can.
3. Gate, fence and compound security. Are there working locks, a gateman, lights?
4. Neighbouring buildings. Noise, bars, churches, markets or generators nearby.
5. Parking. Is there space for your car, and is it safe?
6. Drainage. Look for blocked gutters and signs of flooding.

Structure

1. Ceiling. Stains and bubbling paint can mean roof leaks.
2. Walls. Cracks (especially wide or diagonal ones) and damp patches.
3. Floors. Loose tiles, uneven surfaces, soft spots.
4. Windows and doors. Do they open, close and lock properly? Are there burglar bars?
5. Roof access and condition, if you can see it.

Water

1. Run every tap for a few minutes. Check pressure and colour.
2. Source of water. Borehole, tanker or public supply, and who maintains it?
3. Toilets, showers and sinks. Flush, drain and look for slow drainage.
4. Water heater and tanks, if provided.

Power

1. Meter. Prepaid or postpaid, and is it in your name or shared?
2. Sockets and switches. Test them with a phone charger.
3. Typical supply and backup. Ask neighbours about power cuts and generator rules.
4. Visible wiring. Exposed or taped wires are a safety problem.

Inside the home

1. Kitchen. Cabinet space, sink, gas or hob connection, ventilation.
2. Wardrobes and fittings. What stays and what goes with the previous tenant?
3. Phone and internet signal. Check your network inside every room.

Paperwork and people

1. The person showing you. Are they the landlord or an authorised agent? Ask for proof.
2. The tenancy terms. Ask to see a draft agreement and the full list of fees.
3. Written promises. If the landlord agrees to repair or paint before you move in, get it in writing with a date.

After the inspection

• Take photos and short videos of anything that worries you.
• Compare notes with a friend or family member who came with you.
• Do not pay on the spot. Go home, check the numbers and sleep on it.

Prefer to inspect with support? You can book a viewing from any 9jaFinder listing and chat with the agent beforehand to confirm what you will see.