What to Look for During a Viewing
A property can look perfect on paper, but it's the small details that can really make or break your decision. During a viewing, take your time and look beyond the surface.
Here’s what we recommend checking:
- Run taps and try light switches to check water pressure and electrics - ask when the electrics or fuse-board were last updated.
- Ask about the boiler age and service history as an old boiler can mean future costs
- Inspect outside spaces: is the garden overlooked, is there enough sunlight, and is there usable outdoor space? Consider when the sun reaches the balcony or garden, especially if you enjoy outdoor living or planting veg and flowers!
- Parking and street lighting: does the area feel safe and practical after dark? Is parking restricted, permit-only or shared?
- Test the mobile signal and ask about broadband speeds - this is part of the agent’s legal responsibility under the Material Information disclosure rules
- Check the EPC rating and property age: this will affect your running costs and mortgage suitability. - you will have access to the EPC as this is a legal requirement to be provided within 14 days of the property being put on the market.
- Ask about flood risks or planning restrictions in the area - especially if you're buying near water, or in older urban areas - this can affect the cost of your insurance! Again, this should be on the property listing.
- Look at damp spots, cracked walls or signs of leaks: these could point to underlying issues. Some old properties have been “tied” and you can tell this by a black iron X on the side of a property, which might affect your mortgage options.
- Enquire about noise levels: visit during peak times or evenings to get a real feel of the area.
- Finally, what are the neighbours like? It is a legal requirement for sellers to disclose any neighbourly disputes, but it’s good to ask before you get too far down the road!
A good agent will be happy to answer your questions or provide the legal material facts upfront - and if you’re in any doubt, it’s worth a second viewing or asking your solicitor for deeper searches. We’ll provide clear viewing feedback and are always happy to ask the seller follow-up questions for you.