House viewing checklist

Viewings go quickly and it is easy to be charmed by a tidy room and miss what matters. Use this checklist to view with a clear head — and take it with you.

Outside and structure

• Look at the roof — sagging, missing tiles, or a newer patch that hints at past repairs.
• Check walls for cracks, especially around windows and where extensions meet the original building.
• Look for damp signs: staining, a musty smell, peeling paint, or fresh paint that may be hiding something.
• Check the guttering and downpipes for leaks or plant growth.
• Note the direction the garden faces — south-facing gets the most sun.
• How busy and noisy is the road right outside? Visit at different times if you can.

Inside, room by room

• Test water pressure — run taps and flush the toilet.
• Look under sinks and around the bath for leaks or water damage.
• Open and close windows and doors — do they fit and lock properly?
• Check mobile signal in different rooms.
• Count plug sockets — older homes often have too few.
• Look at the boiler — age, service record, and where it is.
• Check for enough storage — a common regret after moving in.

Questions to ask the agent or seller

• Why are the owners selling, and how long have they been there?
• How long has the property been on the market?
• Has the asking price changed since listing?
• What is included in the sale (appliances, fittings, carpets)?
• Are there any ongoing disputes with neighbours?
• What are the council tax band and running costs?
• Is the property freehold or leasehold — and if leasehold, how many years remain?

After the viewing

Trust your first impression, but verify it with data. A lovely house on a quiet-seeming street can still sit near a flood zone, a planned development, or a higher-crime pocket. Check the address before you offer rather than after.

Frequently asked questions