Appliances
Do they work? Ice in the freezer? Oven heats up? Burners work and heat evenly?

Locks
Are the locks on the apartment and on the main entrance to the building in good condition?

Water
Adequate pressure and hot water? (turn on the taps)

Water Damage
Check for brown spots on the ceiling. Also check around the sinks and bathtubs. Are there cracks?

Plumbing
Is there rust or mold on the pipes? Leaking faucets? (signs of poor plumbing)

Furniture
Does it come with the apartment and if so, is it in good condition? (Some apartments are furnished, others you will need to provide furniture.)

Electricity
Are there enough outlets? Three prong ones? (Three prong outlets are often used for larger appliances.)

Heat
How is the building heated and is it included in the rent?

Air Conditioning
Does the building have central air? Window units?

Windows
Do they open? Are there locks on the windows at least on the lower floors? (Having locks on the windows is important for safety!)

Safety
Are fire exits accessible or are they blocked? Where are the smoke detectors? Is there at least one in every unit and in the hallways?

Maintenance
Is the building in good condition? How well does the landlord respond to concerns from tenets? Ask other residents.

Storage
Is there any extra storage in the basement or community storage areas? What storage space is available in the unit itself?

Questions to Ask a Landlord

• Who lives in the building? Are there other young people?
• Have there been any major repairs or renovations done in the past year?
• Are any major repairs anticipated for the upcoming year?
• Who will be responsible for repairs, including small ones?
• Is there a phone number at which the landlord or superintendent can be reached in case of emergency?
• How is rent payment to be made (by mail, by giving it to the janitor, or directly to the landlord)?
• Where is the closest grocery store, pharmacy, laundromat, etc.?
• Is public transportation accessible from the building?

(adapted from http://www.mcgill.ca/offcampus/tips)