Renting questions

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Hi, I am going to be viewing a possible 3 houses/flats tonight and I'm hoping that one of them will be nice enough for me to rent.

I am just curious if there are any particular questions that I should ask the estate agent when he takes me for a look around?

An example would be TV Licensing, is it included in the whole per calendar month price? (as the house has been converted into 2 'flats')

Any decent questions would be really appreciated as it's my first time of moving out.

[pingping]

it's well worth asking if there is ground rent or maintenance charges to pay on a monthly basis. These are charges for the general up-keep and'or insurance on the flats.

I doubt TV licensing will be included, but its worth asking how much council tax and water/electric/gas bills are as well and if any of them are included in the rent.

find out when the rent is due each month, and whether this date is negotiable (e.g if you get paid on 15th of the month, but rent due on 1st won't be very handy for your finances!).

what is the notice period for ending the tenancy contract? This goes both ways as well - if you want to move out, or if they want you to move out (usually 1 month's notice).

Ask if the rent is negotiable - sometimes it is and you may get some money off (can't guarantee this though!)

good luck - and I hope you find something nice.