Checklist: renting a property

Are you planning to rent a property soon? What should you think about and be attentive to before signing the contract? For you, myLIFE has established a useful checklist that covers various aspects of the process, from the property itself to financial and interpersonal aspects.*

Inspection of the property and the environment

• • General condition of the property. Check the condition of the walls, floors, windows, doors, etc.
  • Equipment. Ensure that the appliances that equip the property (oven, refrigerator, washing machine, etc.) are functioning properly.
  • Plumbing and electricity. Test the faucets, outlets, and switches.
  • Energy. Request a copy of the energy passport of the rental property.
  • Safety and hygiene. Check for the presence of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as the security of windows and doors. Also, be attentive to hygiene standards (absence of mold).
  • Environment. Evaluate the proximity of public transportation, shops, services, schools, and green spaces.
  • Nuisances. Pay attention to noises (traffic, neighborhood), air quality, and the safety of the area. Visit the property at different times of the day.
  • Defects and possible repairs. Request necessary repairs/renovations before the handover of keys and clarify your responsibilities and latitude to arrange the property to your liking.

Property visit

• • Carefully study the advertisement. Try to identify the owner’s selection criteria (creditworthiness, employment and type of work contract, pets…) and prepare to respond to them as best as possible.
  • Property visit. Be punctual, presentable, and courteous to make a good impression.
  • Tenant file. Compile a complete file (pay slips, identification documents, references) and be prepared to be questioned about your background.

Financial Aspects

• • Rent. Ensure that the rent is in line with the market.
  • Rental guarantee (maximum 2 months’ rent). Check the amount of the rental guarantee, the conditions for its return, and the deadlines.
  • Charges. Clarify the issue of charges included in the rent (water, electricity, heating, Internet, etc.) and obtain a detailed list of additional charges, their calculation method, and payment deadlines.
  • Insurance. Verify your obligations and those of the owner regarding insurance.

Lease Agreement

• • Type of lease. Check if it is a furnished, unfurnished, or seasonal lease.
  • Lease duration. Note the duration of the contract and renewal conditions.
  • Applicable law. Inquire about the current legislation regarding leases.
  • Specific clauses. Carefully read all clauses regarding termination, notice period, and exit conditions.
  • Conditions for rent increase. Find out about the conditions for rent increase.
  • Inventory check. Conduct a detailed inventory check upon entry, noting all existing defects. Attach the document to the contract.

Relationship with the owner

• • Communication. Establish clear and open communication from the start.
  • Responsiveness. Be available to respond to the owner’s questions and concerns.
  • Maintenance. Offer to plan for regular maintenance of the property during the rental period.
  • Rights and duties. For more effective communication, be informed about your rights as a tenant and those of the owner.
  • Co-ownership. Learn about the co-ownership regulations and any upcoming work.

* Content translated from French by the BIL GPT AI tool