Relocations can be hectic, but they also mean that you flip a new chapter in your life and dive into new experiences. While on the search for your next home, you may have stumbled upon the perfection option that fits your budget and is ready to host a new owner. However, before signing your lease or beginning the moving process, you will want to go to the residence and inspect it. Usually, this walkthrough is done in the presence of the landlord or agent to identify any issues with the house that need fixing before you can relocate. This procedure is essential since it helps you walk around any costs that would have been incurred from damages that were not your fault in the first place. Even if they do not offer to have a walkthrough, ensure that you suggest one.
Be Ready
Before you start the inspection, have the necessary tools with you to note anything that is out of place. Have a camera to snap photos of anything that is not as it should be. This tool can be substituted with a smartphone if it has a good camera attached. Have a notebook and pen as well, but like the camera, they can be accessed as an application on smartphones. Ensure that you also carry a tape measure so that you can take measurements of access points to see if your large chattels like furniture will fit through. The last thing you want is to realize the doorways are too small for your couch on moving day.
Checks to Conduct
Begin by performing a general inspection before going into specifics. Start by looking at whether the home has a pest problem, which can be told by chew marks and waste. Check whether all the outlets are working, which can be done using a cell phone charger. Also, ensure that the cables for phones and other appliances are working and are placed at secure access points.
Safety should also be at the forefront of your worries, so assess the presence and functionality of fire equipment. If you are moving into an apartment complex, make sure there is a fire escape in case of an emergency. You can now proceed to specific areas such as:
- Access points
Inspect the doors and windows to see if they shut and open as they should. The locks should not be flimsy, and you should have a key for all of them.
- Bathroom
Beware of leaks that could be underneath sinks, and you can rule out any by running water through them. You can also check for discolored spots and weird smells that can indicate hidden leaks. Also, ensure every shower and toilet works.
- Kitchen
Run every appliance and burner to see if they work. Open the doors of the fridge and cabinets to check how they perform. Once these and all other mentioned steps pan out fine, you can proceed with planning on a move.
We recommend you to read “DESTRESSING WORKPLACE RELOCATIONS” and “RELOCATION BLUNDERS TO AVOID”.