If you are interested in a particular house or flat, find out as much as you can by phone. This means you only need visit the places that sound suitable. Ask:
Is it a flat or house
The number of rooms,
The type of heating.
Is there a back garden or yard
How much per week/month. How much rent in advance and deposit is required.
Whether they accept rent allowance if you intend to apply of it.
Viewing the House
If you decide to view the house get an exact address, directions and a contact phone number of the landlord or letting agency. Ask who will be showing the house and if others will be viewing it at the same time as you. If you decide to view a house it really is a good idea to ask a family member or friend to go with you. For your own safety it is not wise to go to an empty house on your own to meet someone you don’t know. If you have to go on your own, make sure that someone else knows where you are going and when you are expected back
Some things to look out for...
If you have been looking for a while for a place, you may be tempted to take the first place that seems at all reasonable. Remember you and you baby will have to live in it, so try to take a little time. When you go into the house/flat take a good look around each room. Think about what you need in your home and what's important to you:
Is the house clean and bright?
Does it house feel warm and cosy?
Are there any visible signs of dampness on the walls or ceilings?
Are all the appliances cooker, fridge, shower etc in working order?
Is there sufficient/too much furniture for your needs, is it in good repair.
Is there an electric shower or a means of heating water for bathing/washing
Is there a washing machine and dryer, or means of drying clothes
Is there enough storage for all you need and somewhere to put your buggy/pram
Safety
This will be yours and your baby's home so it is important that it is safe and secure for you.
Do you have to climb lots of steps to get to the house/apartment and how easy would it be to carry baby and buggy to your front door!
Are the internal stairs very steep or have open steps.
Is there any safe outside space for your child to play?
Check out the windows- would it be easy for a child to fall out?
Does the front or back door open directly on to the road, this could be dangerous as your baby gets older.
Is there fire safety equipment such as a fire blanket and fire hydrant and smoke alarms.
Are there good locks for the windows and doors
Do you have your own entrance or do you have to share with others, if it is shared how is your living area secured
Don’t feel you are being over fussy by asking questions, its much better to know all you can about the house before you make your decision. You may not think the house is perfect, but work out what’s most important to you and if it offers them you might think its worth it.
