Signed initial tenancy agreement, now what?

Posted by Spaceeebunz@reddit | AskUK | View on Reddit | 9 comments

Hi guys, my partner and I are looking to move out for the first time. We viewed a flat last week and put in an offer and they accepted it today. They sent over all the relevant documents and we have paid the holding deposit. My question is, the draft contract says we cannot enter the flat before the move in date. My father has advised me that I should try out all electrical appliances, bathroom taps etc before moving in. When would I have the opportunity to do this? Or is it something we’ll have to deal with when we first move in - and if we find anything wrong they’ll have to sort this out? Thanks!

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9 Comments

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annedroiid@reddit

> My father has advised me that I should try out all electrical appliances, bathroom taps etc before moving in Typically you’d try that in the viewing you did. At this point you’ll just have to do it as the first thing when you move in. A good landlord will have an inventory and go through with you to confirm the level of repair of everything when you move in, which your check-out will then be compared against. If they don’t suggest this, just do one yourself. Take a long video of the whole flag showing the condition everything is in. Then try out the things you listed above to make sure they all work.

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Spaceeebunz@reddit (OP)

I couldn’t really do it during the viewing as someone still lives there - but they said we could arrange a second viewing so I’ll talk to them about it then!

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Hot-Isopod-6136@reddit

So you signed a contract for a place without ever seeing the inside/ entering the building? Hopefully your not in for big surprise once you see the place..

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SomeHSomeE@reddit

If you didn't check them when you viewed the place then you won't get another chance before moving in. You'll usually have an inventory report on day 1 or shortly thereafter. Sometimes it's done by a company sometimes they just send you a list and ask you to check it. This is your chance to do a thorough inspection and report anything not working, any pre-existing damage etc. Also, take LOADS AND LOADS of photos on day 1.

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FixSwords@reddit

What does your contract say about electrical appliances and bathroom taps?

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Spaceeebunz@reddit (OP)

It says the landlord has to make sure everything works

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FixSwords@reddit

Then there's your answer. Enjoy your new home.

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NotDisabledEnough@reddit

Ideally you'd check these things before signing the tenancy. Not much you can do now until your move in date, short of emailing the agency and asking if they can confirm the status. On the day you move in photograph **every** blemish, smudge, crack etc. within the property. Ideally record a walk-through immediately after you get the keys. If there are any issues email the lettings agency / landlord.

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