Leaving the nest or expanding your family, starting or restarting a story, often means changing accommodation. What are the essential checks to be carried out before signing a lease?

Touring the neighbourhood

Before you even visit a property you have found, think about taking a tour of the neighbourhood to get an idea of the environment. The presence of local shops, a public transport network, schools, etc., in short, everything that will make your daily life easier. Take advantage of this opportunity to take a tour of the residence!

Impressions during the first visit

The fact that you may fall in love with the house should not prevent you from asking some essential questions. Even if first impressions are often the right ones, you should ask yourself if the organisation of the rooms really suits your lifestyle, if the poor natural light in the room will not end up depressing you? In short, play devil's advocate to remove all doubts.

Heating method and insulation

This is an important issue that affects not only your daily comfort, but also your finances! Take the opportunity to check the windows, which are often a source of energy loss if they are not double-glazed. Don't hesitate to ask the previous tenant (or the agency) for energy bills.

Technical checks

Look at the walls and ceilings for signs of damp or mould. If you see any, leak! Also test the taps with as much pressure as possible to check the condition of the plumbing before you count the number of electrical sockets and the conformity of the installation.

The devil is in the detail 

Heating and sanitary facilities are the most important things, but also test the shutters, window openings and locks to make sure they work properly. Finally, take a look at the floors and the amount of storage space available.