When looking at potential properties, you may wish to have the following list of items with you or on your phone so you can consult them as you look at different places.
- Are all locks (doors and windows) in good working order? Who has access to the keys?
- Are there proper exits in case of fire, and are they clearly marked? Is there a smoke detector(s) in the dwelling? Do they work? (Fire extinguisher?)
- If the rental is heated by natural gas, it requires a carbon monoxide alarm. This is the law and is very important.
- Are there enough electrical outlets, and are they in working order? Do you have access to a fuse box/circuit breakers, if necessary? Have there been problems with the electricity?
- Is water pressure and hot water sufficient – try all faucets including shower, toilets etc.
- Check the size of the hot water tank; a 30-40 gallon tank is needed for a family of 3-5 people.
- Is there proper lighting and ventilation? Are there ceiling fixtures, or do you have to provide lamps?
- What type of heating is used? The standard for the city is that the heating system must be capable of reaching a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius five feet from the floor and three feet from the exterior walls. Interior floors and ceiling must be kept free from dampness.
- Are there storm windows? Do windows open and close properly? (If paying for heating, poor insulation can make heating costly).
- Where is the temperature control? Is it accessible?
- Where do you put the garbage and when? Is recycling part of the garbage removal system? The Windsor area includes red box (paper materials) and blue box (glass and plastic materials) removal on certain days of the week.
- Is the dwelling clean? Pest free? Is the landlord cleaning/painting the dwelling before you move in? Will you be permitted to paint and will you be compensated for any expense?
- Open cupboards. Are they free from mice droppings, bugs? If present, be aware there could be a pest issue.
- Do all of the appliances work? Try them!
- Seasonal factors – Who is responsible for exterior maintenance – i.e., cutting grass, shoveling snow, raking leaves.