When you're in the middle of a stressful PCS move, it's tempting to throw your hands up and grab the first apartment that seems okay. But rushing can leave you stuck in a cramped or poorly maintained space for a year—or longer. A little extra effort now can save you a lot of headaches later.
Before you sign a lease, take the time to inspect your potential new home with these smart tips from ApartmentLiving.com:
Safety First: Make sure there are working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers — not just in the unit, but also in hallways and other shared areas.
Plumbing Check: Look under sinks and around faucets and toilets for signs of leaks, corrosion, or water damage.
Test Water Pressure: Turn on the shower as soon as you arrive and leave it running during your walk-through. See how long it takes to warm up and whether it stays hot consistently.
Ask About Hot Water: Find out whether the unit has its own water heater or shares one with others. Shared systems can mean hot water runs out quickly during peak times.
Consider Your Neighbors: Even a large shared water heater won’t help if your upstairs neighbor takes a daily hourlong shower at 6 a.m. Think about timing and availability.
Inspect Major Systems: Check the furnace and water heater for rust, debris, or signs of leaks. These may point to more serious issues like carbon monoxide risks or inefficient heating.
Appliance Audit: Test all appliances to be sure they work properly. If there's no in-unit laundry, ask to see the shared facility and check that it’s clean, secure, and well-lit.
Check for Pests: Look carefully for evidence of insects or rodents, especially inside cabinets, drawers, and closets.
Feel for Drafts: Run your hand around window frames to detect any cold air sneaking in.
Look Up: Inspect the ceilings for water stains or discoloration. These may signal leaks, careless neighbors, or mold problems.
Wall Watch: Check for cracked paint, peeling wallpaper, or patchy repairs. These may indicate foundational issues or water damage.
Lock Security: All locks should be solid and firmly attached. Wobbly locks are a safety red flag.
Door Durability: Doors — especially exterior ones — should close snugly, have sturdy hinges, and be fitted with deadbolts.
Flip the Switch: Test all lights to ensure they work and don’t flicker, which could suggest electrical issues.
Test the Outlets: Bring a small appliance like a phone charger or clock radio and test outlets throughout the unit to ensure consistent power.
Take Your Time: Don’t rush your inspection. This will be your home, maybe for a year or more. Make sure it feels safe, solid, and comfortable before you sign.
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