Preparing for a viewing

A viewing is your chance to see whether a home really suits you. We often have more interest than homes, so we invite a shortlist to view in person. If you need a different arrangement, just tell us.

Before you go

• Check the rent. Since 1 May 2026, every written advert or offer must state a specific rent, and a landlord can't invite or accept offers above it. So there's never any need to bid.
• Look up the Council Tax band on GOV.UK, using the address or postcode.
• Check the long term flood risk for the area on GOV.UK.
• Check broadband and mobile signal with Ofcom's free checker.

Documents you're entitled to see

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). It must be made available to you free of charge, at the latest when you view or when you're first sent written details, whichever comes first. Our guide to your EPC explains what it tells you.
• Electrical safety report. If you ask in writing, a landlord must give you a copy within 28 days. If you become the tenant, you get one before you move in.
• Gas safety record. Where there's gas, you'll receive a copy of the latest record before you move in. Our guide to safety checks has more.
• The key terms. Before you sign, the law says you must be given written information about the main terms, such as the rent, when it's due and the notice you'd need to give.

Questions worth asking

• Which bills, if any, are included in the rent?
• How is the home heated, and who supplies the energy?
• Is there parking, storage or outside space?
• Would a pet be possible? We consider pets case by case.
• How are repairs reported?

What to look at

Take your time, and take photos or notes if it helps. Turn on a tap and look at the heating controls. Check the windows open and lock. Look for smoke alarms, and for any signs of damp or mould, such as dark patches or a musty smell. Nothing is too small to ask about.

Find out more

• Check your Council Tax band (GOV.UK)
• Check the long term flood risk for an area in England (GOV.UK)
• Mobile and broadband checker (Ofcom)
• Find an energy certificate (GOV.UK)
• Renters' Rights Act overview for tenants (GOV.UK)