Secure Your Comfort and Peace of Mind with Due Diligence

Searching for a new rental property, especially a long-term home, requires careful consideration beyond just the aesthetics and the monthly rent. A smooth and comfortable living experience depends on the reliability of essential services, the quality of the surrounding environment, and the security measures in place. This comprehensive checklist guides you through the critical factors to inspect and confirm before you sign a lease, ensuring you don’t end up in a problematic situation and secure a truly suitable home.

The Essential Rental Home Checklist

I. Services and Utilities: The Non-Negotiables

Reliable essential services are the foundation of comfortable living. Do not assume they are fully functional.

• Water Supply:
  • Source: Is the primary supply from the county council, or a borehole?
  • Consistency: Ask current tenants or neighbours about the reliability of the supply. Does water run every day, or are there frequent shortages?
  • Storage: Does the home have a sufficient backup water storage tank? Check its capacity.
  • Water Heater: Test the geyser or instant shower to ensure it heats water efficiently.
• Electricity Supply:
  • Reliability: Inquire about the frequency of power outages (blackouts).
  • Billing: Is the meter prepaid (token) or post-paid? Confirm the meter is easily accessible and correctly registered to the property.
  • Backup Power: Is there a common area generator, an inverter system, or a designated space for a personal generator?
• Access to Internet & Communication:
  • Broadband Availability: Check which major Fibre Optic Internet Service Providers (ISPs) service the specific building or area (e.g., Safaricom, Zuku, Faiba).
  • Mobile Network Strength: Check the signal strength (4G/5G) for your mobile carrier inside and outside the home.
  • Pre-Wired: Check if the home is pre-wired for TV satellite dishes or fibre optic connections.
• Sewerage & Waste Management:
  • Sewerage System: Is the property connected to the main municipal sewer line, or does it use a septic tank? If it’s a septic tank, confirm who is responsible for the emptying costs (exhauster service).
  • Garbage Collection: Is there a service charge included in the rent, or do you need to arrange and pay for a private collection service? Confirm the frequency of collection.

II. Security and Safety

Your personal safety and the security of your possessions should be a top priority.

• Perimeter Security: Inspect the perimeter wall or fence. Is it sturdy? Does it have electric fencing, razor wire, or effective barbed wire?
• Guards/Gate: Is there a 24-hour manned gate? Is the security company reputable? Ask about the security protocols for guests and vehicles.
• Windows and Doors: Check the quality of locks on all doors. Are there sturdy grills or panic bolts on windows?
• Lighting: Check the external compound lighting, especially around parking areas and walkways, for visibility at night.

III. Condition and Practicalities

A thorough visual inspection can save you from future hassles and repair costs.

• Dampness and Leaks: Look for signs of water stains, peeling paint, or a musty smell on walls and ceilings, which indicate dampness or leaks.
• Ventilation: Ensure bathrooms and kitchens have proper ventilation to prevent mould and keep the air fresh.
• Fixtures and Fittings: Test all taps, showers, and toilet flushes. Check the cabinets and drawers in the kitchen and wardrobes in the bedrooms to ensure they open and close smoothly.
• Pest Control: Ask about the history of pests (e.g., rodents, termites, bedbugs) and what maintenance is done to prevent them.
• Noise Levels: Visit the property at different times of the day (morning, evening, and weekend) to gauge the actual noise levels from neighbours, traffic, or nearby businesses.

IV. Community and Access

• Accessibility: How far is the property from essential amenities such as local markets, grocery stores, and schools?
• Transport: Is the road easily accessible for public transport and personal vehicles? What is the condition of the access road (e.g., paved or rough terrain)?
• Neighbourhood Feel: Observe the general atmosphere of the street and neighbourhood. A well-maintained street often indicates a proactive community.

Making Your Final Decision

Completing this checklist before you commit ensures you have a clear and comprehensive understanding of the property’s true living conditions and costs. Choosing a rental is about finding a place where you can feel secure, comfortable, and at peace, allowing you to focus on your well-being and daily life without unnecessary stress from utility failures or security concerns.