Most rental problems, from losing your deposit to surprise charges after you move in, can be avoided if you check carefully before paying a deposit. Below is a list to take with you when you view a place, so you can tick off each item.
Before the viewing: ask by phone
- Rent, deposit and payment schedule.
- How electricity, water, internet, rubbish collection and parking are charged.
- Entry and curfew hours, whether pets are allowed, and the maximum number of occupants.
- Minimum contract length.
In the room
Structure
- ☐ Any damp patches, cracks or mould on the ceiling and walls.
- ☐ Any water lines low on the walls or along the skirting (a sign the area floods).
- ☐ Floor, doors and windows are solid and open and close properly.
Electricity
- ☐ Sockets are secure, there are enough of them, and there is a circuit breaker.
- ☐ Whether the electricity meter is separate or shared.
- ☐ Air conditioner, fans and lights work.
Water
- ☐ Turn on every tap and check the pressure and how clear the water is.
- ☐ Hot water works.
- ☐ The bathroom floor drains quickly and does not smell.
Other
- ☐ Door locks and spare keys.
- ☐ Test the wifi speed or the phone signal inside the room.
- ☐ Natural light, ventilation, and a balcony or somewhere to dry clothes.
- ☐ Noise: stand in the room with the door closed and listen for a few minutes.
The surrounding area
- ☐ Whether the street outside floods in heavy rain. Ask the neighbours, and see the post on the Da Nang rainy season.
- ☐ Parking, security at night, street lighting.
- ☐ The nearest market, supermarket and places to eat.
The landlord and documents
- ☐ Whether the person renting to you is the owner or someone authorised by the owner. Ask to see their documents and check that the name matches the holder of the bank account receiving the money.
- ☐ If they are subletting (renting the place and then renting it out again), ask whether the owner has agreed in writing.
- ☐ For an apartment in a residential building, ask the building management about its rules on renting.
Contract and deposit
- ☐ The deposit amount, the date it was received and the conditions for getting it back are written down clearly.
- ☐ The notice period before moving out and the penalty if you leave before the end of the term.
- ☐ Who pays for small repairs and who pays for major ones.
- ☐ Agree the electricity and water meter readings on move-in day and take photos of them.
- ☐ Photograph the whole room and all furniture when you move in, and send the photos to the landlord so you both keep a copy.
- ☐ Do not send a deposit before you have seen the room; see the post on deposit scams.
Frequently asked questions
How many months of deposit should I pay?
One to two months is common, agreed between the two parties. More important than the number is that the conditions for returning the deposit are written down.
Should I pay a deposit before viewing the room?
No. A “holding” deposit before a viewing is one of the most common scams.
What should I photograph when I move in?
The electricity and water meters, any existing damage, and the condition of the walls, floor and appliances. Keep the photos with their date and time so you can compare when you move out.
See also: rent prices by area, setting up electricity, water and internet.