Has an Inventory been completed?
Before you move in, you should be advised whether the agent or Landlord has conducted an inventory of the property. This is a report which records the condition of the property and its fixtures and fittings. You may be invited to attend a check in with your agent/Landlord to run through the inventory report with them. Otherwise, the inventory should be provided to you for you to go through and note anything that has been missed. It is important that the inventory is as accurate as possible as this document provides proof of the condition of the property when you moved in.
If you spot anything not highlighted in the inventory, take a photo and report it to the landlord or letting agent—regardless of how minor it is. Ideally ask for the damage to be agreed in writing in return, and keep any communication you've had. Whilst you will be eager to move in, taking the time to check the property will help to ensure that there are no deposit disputes at the end of the tenancy.
Are the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms working?
In England, all alarms and detectors must be tested and working on the first day of the tenancy (as stipulated in the tenancy agreement) by law. This can be done alongside the inventory and confirmed in the report. If you find any of the alarms are not working, report this to your letting agent or Landlord immediately. It is important that you continue to test all alarms frequently to ensure they are still working and don't need their batteries replaced.
Take meter readings
Make a note of the meter readings before you start unpacking so that your utility company can give you an accurate bill based on what you've used. You will need to notify them giving the readings for gas, electricity and water along with your move-in date. You may receive bills for previous tenants or the Landlord, pass these onto your Landlord or letting agent to deal with.
