Rental Viewing Checklist

Tip: A Viven Renter Report covers flood risk, crime statistics, and 15+ other data points for any property — so you don't have to check each source individually.

Tip: Save or screenshot the listing — agents sometimes amend details after initial publication.

Tip: It is a legal requirement in England for agents to belong to a government-approved redress scheme.

Tip: Rental properties in England and Wales must have an EPC rating of E or above. A low rating may mean high energy bills. EPC data is included in every Viven Renter Report.

• —Budget including bills
• —Commute time and transport links
• —Pet policy if applicable
• —Minimum tenancy length required

Tip: Look for dark patches, peeling paint, or a musty smell — these are classic signs of damp or condensation issues.

Tip: Single-glazed windows in an older property can massively increase heating costs.

Tip: Run the taps and flush the loo during the viewing. Low water pressure is a common issue that is costly to fix.

Tip: A Viven Renter Report includes broadband and mobile coverage data for the postcode — but it's still worth testing signal strength in person during the viewing.

Tip: Especially important if you work from home — check before you sign the tenancy.

Tip: Ask who is responsible for repairs if an appliance breaks — the landlord should maintain any they provide.

Tip: Landlords are legally required to have an annual gas safety check. Ask to see the Gas Safety Certificate.

Tip: Landlords have a duty to ensure the property is safe and secure. Insecure doors or windows should be flagged.

Tip: In England and Wales, your deposit must be placed in one of three schemes: DPS, MyDeposits, or TDS within 30 days.

• —Council tax band and annual cost
• —Water (metered or fixed rate)
• —Gas and electricity
• —Broadband and TV licence

Tip: Ask the current tenant if possible, or look for online reviews of the letting agent.

Tip: Most assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) are 6 or 12 months. A break clause lets you leave early — check the notice period.

Tip: The Tenant Fees Act 2019 bans most letting fees in England. Agents can only charge for rent, deposit (max 5 weeks), holding deposit (max 1 week), and permitted payments.

Tip: If the property needs a licence but does not have one, the landlord cannot legally evict you via a Section 21 notice.

Tip: This can reveal useful information about the landlord, neighbours, or ongoing issues.

Tip: Nearby planning applications are included in a Viven Renter Report, so you can see what's been proposed in the area.