7 Safety Questions to Ask Your Landlord before Moving In

When you view a flat, apartment or house, sometimes you get so excited that you forget about all the important questions you need to ask your landlord.

Write up a list to make sure you remember to ask everything you need to know about your potential new home. Your landlord is more likely to try to accommodate your needs BEFORE you move in, so ask all the questions you need to.

Here are seven safety questions to ask your landlord before you move in:

1. Is everything working properly?

A landlord needs to check if everything is in working condition, especially the appliances, before you move in. Make a note to test the stove, fridge, taps and other appliances when you go for a viewing at a property.

2. Are the drapes, blinds, or curtains included?

Sometimes these things are included, and sometimes they aren't, so make sure to ask before hand. If they don't come with the residence, make sure to hand some up quickly, you don't want people looking in at your valuables.

3. Have the locks been changed?

Whether you’re moving into an apartment or a house, insist that the locks be changed before moving in. Make sure the locks are new and not just redistributed. Some apartment owners just rotate the locks between apartments, which can be dangerous. You never know who might be savvy to the system and have keys to the old locks.

4. Who lives in the adjoining apartments or neighbourhood?

It is an important part of moving into a new place to check if your neighbours are nice and friendly. If you are ever in an emergency situation, its great to know your neighbours will be there to help. Ask your landlord about children, pets and the general feel of the area.

5. Are there motion-sensor lights? Is the area well-lit?

It may not be a bad idea to check out your potential residence at night to see how the lighting checks out, rather than taking the landlord’s word for it. Intruders love to hide in the dark, so the more lighting outside, the better. Motion-sensor lights are great because you don’t have to waste energy leaving lights on, but if motion is detected near an entrance or window, the lights will come on. You can find motion sensor lights at pretty affordable prices, and they make a big difference in the safety of your home.

6. Is there a fire extinguisher on the premises?

If your residence does not come with a fire extinguisher, consider asking the landlord to supply one, or buy one and keeping it in an easy-to-grab place in case of a fire emergency. Educate yourself about what to do in case of a fire, and make sure you have all of the essentials ready to go.

7. Has the place been tested for mould?

Mould in homes can be associated with several health risks, including eye irritation, respiratory problems, and headaches. Mould can often be found in crawl spaces, attics, and drywall, and if found, it should be removed immediately and the area should be cleaned. Generally, homes or apartments should be tested for mould every 5­–10 years. Be especially careful if you notice any black mould, and be sure to ask about this when you’re taking your first tour of the home.

Don’t hesitate to ask your landlord questions, and be prepared to make safety adjustments in your new home or apartment.