Maynooth University Student Services
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Student (Tenant) Information
The Exterior
- The roof looks sound, there aren't any tiles missing.
- The gutters and pipes aren't broken, leaking or full of grass.
- The window frames aren't rotten.
- The windows aren't broken, cracked or draughty.
- Double glazing will help you reduce your heating bills in winter.
The Interior
- No signs of damp - e.g. dark patches, peeling wallpaper or flaking paint, mould or smell of must.
- Few signs of condensation such as mould on the walls.
- There aren't any signs of pests, like slug trails and mouse droppings.
- Look for ventilation especially in the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom or where you have any gas appliances
- Is it warm clean and dry?
Gas & Electricity
- The plugs don't get hot when switched on. There are plenty of sockets.
- The wiring doesn't look old, there aren't any frayed cables.
- The gas fire heats up properly and isn't heat stained (if it is it may be dangerous).
- The cooker works! Try it. All hobs/rings, oven & grill and take note of its condition.
Plumbing & Heating
- Check there is hot water.
- The taps all work properly and check the water pressure in the shower.
- The bath and basins aren't cracked, and the toilet flushes properly.
- Is hot water provided by an electric immersion?
- How is the house heated?
- What will it cost to heat, and double check the system is working?
- Not only is central heating an effective way of keeping warm, central heating can be the cheapest system, and it reduces dampness and condensation.
Security
- Does the area look safe?
- Does the house look safe and secure?
- Check the windows and doors (including bedroom doors) are solid with locks.
- Check that the windows open. You are responsible for contents insurance.
- Does it have a burglar alarm? Use your bargaining powers to get one. It is in the landlord’s/agent's interest as well as your own.
- Does it have a fire blanket, fire extinguishers, smoke detector, carbon monoxide alarm and a fire escape route?
- Does it have a fire blanket & fire extinguisher?
Miscellaneous
- What furniture is in the house and what is the condition?
- Is there sufficient storage space?
- Is the lighting sufficient for study?
- Who else holds keys to the property?
- If there is a garden, who maintains it? Do you have access to the clothes line?
- Check Building Energy Rating to try and reduce heating costs?
Recommended websites
Checklist by the PRTB
Dos & Don’ts of renting by Threshold