Apartment viewing: the checklist you need on site

A viewing rarely lasts longer than twenty minutes — and in that time you must recognise whether the apartment can become your home. With this checklist you won't miss anything important.

Check on site

• Walls and ceilings: damp patches, cracks, signs of mould.
• Windows: seals, double glazing, locking mechanism.
• Heating: condition of radiators, visible leaks.
• Electricity: number of sockets, condition of the fuse box.
• Water: pressure and temperature when turning on.
• Surroundings: street noise, bins, neighbours in the stairwell.

Questions for the landlord

• How high are the utility prepayments and what do they include?
• Is the apartment renovated — and what do I have to take over?
• Is there a minimum lease term or a step rent?
• What is the notice period at my current apartment?

A local finder views apartments regularly — they can tell you in advance whether the trip is worth it at all.