Move-in checklist

Before the visit

Ask the owner if the place is still available and the exact rent. Ask what is included: water, electricity (sub-meter?), internet, parking, waste collection. Check the area on the map: bus stop, shops, your college or office. Never send money before you have seen the place.

On the visit

Turn on the taps: is there water, and how many hours a day? Ask about the tank and jar water. Check the walls and ceiling for damp or leaks. Try the lights, sockets, fan and the electricity meter. Look at the bathroom and kitchen: drains, geyser, gas connection place. Check the doors, window locks and grills. Ask about house rules: visitors, cooking, pets, gate closing time. Visit once more at night or on a working day to check noise and safety.

Before you pay and sign

Agree the rent, the deposit and the day rent is paid each month. Agree how much notice each side must give before leaving. Write everything in a rental agreement and keep your own copy. Pay by bank or wallet if you can, and always get a receipt. Check that the person is really the owner (or has the owner's permission).

Moving day

Take photos and a short video of every room, with the date – especially marks and damage. Write down the electricity sub-meter reading together with the owner. Count the keys you receive. Save the owner's number and an emergency contact (plumber, electrician).

First weeks

Tell the owner about any problem in writing (a message is fine). Register your stay at the ward office if the owner or ward asks for it. Keep all rent receipts together until you get your deposit back.