Photos only tell part of the story. Use your viewing to check the things that make daily life easy or difficult. Take this list with you and tick it off as you go.
Water and power
- Turn on the taps in the kitchen and bathroom. Check the pressure, and how quickly hot water comes if there is a heater.
- Ask how often water is available and whether there is a storage tank or borehole.
- Find out if electricity is a prepaid token meter for your unit alone or a shared meter.
- Switch on lights and test a few sockets.
Inside the house
- Look for damp patches, cracks or mould on walls and ceilings, especially in bathrooms and corners.
- Open and close every door and window, and check that they lock properly.
- Check the kitchen: sink, cupboards, space for a fridge and cooker, and ventilation.
- Check the floors and the toilet flush, and ask what will be repaired before you move in.
- Check mobile signal and ask which internet providers serve the building.
Around the building
- Ask about security: gate, guard, CCTV and lighting at night.
- Check parking if you have a car, and whether it costs extra.
- Ask how garbage is collected and what it costs.
- Visit, or ask about, the area at night and during rush hour: noise, the access road and matatu routes.
Money and paperwork
- Confirm the rent, deposit and every extra charge, and get them in writing.
- Ask for the tenancy agreement and read the notice period, deposit refund terms and who handles repairs.
After the viewing
Take photos of anything that needs fixing and agree in writing when it will be done. When you move in, photograph the house again so you have a record when you move out and want your deposit back.
On PlugConnect KE you can request a viewing straight from a listing, or call and WhatsApp the landlord or agent. Save a search and we will alert you when a new house that matches your budget is listed.
