Viewing checklist – Tools for tenants

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Check corners, window reveals and behind furniture for dark stains and a musty smell.

Ask whether there has been mould or water damage in recent years.

Windows sealed? Radiators in every room?

Ask how warm it gets in winter and how hot in summer (top floor, south side).

Listen for road, train and neighbour noise – if possible, come back at another time of day.

Look at kitchen, bathroom, floors and doors: condition and age.

Turn on the tap: pressure, and how quickly does hot water come? Enough sockets?

Stairwell, cellar and façade: well kept or neglected?

Ask about the type and age of the heating. Is there a lift, and does it work?

Laundry room: own machine or a rota? How often is it your turn?

Letterbox, bike and pram room, parking, step-free access?

Read the house rules; if possible, talk briefly to neighbours.

Does the front door lock? Lighting at the entrance and on the path?

Ask who is responsible for damage and how quickly repairs are made.

How do you reach the property manager (phone, e-mail, emergency number)?

When moving in, ask for a handover report listing all defects. You may see the previous tenant's move-out report (Art. 256a CO).

Which service charges are listed item by item? Advance payments or flat rate? How much was the last statement?Check service charges

Ask what the previous tenant paid. In some cantons it must be stated on a form (Art. 270 para. 2 CO).

Which reference rate is in the agreement?Check the reference rate

Deposit at most three months' rent, in a bank account in your name.Check the deposit