Renting can offer flexibility and the opportunity to try out an area without the hassle of buying a property that needs to be sold in the near future. However if you're thinking of renting, make sure you take the following steps before entering into a lease.

1. View the property on more than one occasion
Before handing over your deposit, it is always important to consider whether or not the property is right for you.

2. Always view the property at different times of the day
You should always view properties during daylight hours to see any flaws or defects. It is also a good idea to look at the property later on in the day to see if the road is busy at certain times, and to check the availability of street parking in the evening. It will also allow you to check out the noise levels and to see how much light enters the rooms.

3. Always examine the exterior and interior structure
Check the visible appearance of the building's exterior. If the exterior is in disrepair then it is likely that the interior will also be in poor condition and there could be problems in the future. You should look for things like the following:

• Visible cracks, leaning walls, damaged windows, guttering and the drains
• If there is a shared garden, who is responsible for its upkeep?

When checking the interior you should be looking to see:

• If there are any signs of dampness.
• If there is central heating.
• Whether the radiators work.
• If the property has roof insulation and double glazing
• If the taps work.
• Whether the lights are working
• Whether there are smoke detectors in working order

In general you should ask yourself whether the property looks as though it is in good condition and if it is really worth the rent being asked for.

If you dislike the paint the landlord may agree to it being changed although it is likely that this will be at your own expense.

4. Make sure you have a complete inventory
It will serve you well to make a full inventory of what is in the property. This should include a complete list of everything in the property, such as kitchen equipment, furniture etc.

If the Landlord is to draw up the list you should try to be present so that you can agree with what is written on the list. A thorough inspection should be carried out even if it involves looking under beds, kneeling down to examine carpet, lifting up bed sheets to look at the bed etc.

If you are unable to attend the property for the inventory you should check the list against the items in the property with someone else. If something is broken or missing you should let the landlord know in writing straightaway. Before you move in, take photos of any damage you find and make sure to date them.

If you are not given an inventory by your landlord, you should draw one up yourself and give a copy of it to the landlord along with photographs of any defects.  ezinearticles