The three red flags to look out for when viewing a flat

Prospective tenants are under increasing pressure to make a decision fast or risk losing their chance to secure a property completely.

Obviously, you still need to give a decision like this due process, as you don't want to end up buying a place that has hidden issues.

Elliot Rainbow, property expert and CEO of Ernest Brooks International, has shared his thoughts and experience of what modern flat hunters may be missing out on when attending viewings.

There are a few red flags people might miss when attending one of these that they should have in the back of their mind.

3 red flags to look out for on your next flat viewing

The design of the flat

Rainbow suggests taking the design of the flat into account when on a viewing, as a poorly thought-out area can be an annoyance to deal with.

He explains: “Take windows, for example. They’re your connection to natural light, airflow, and any sense of space, yet so many renters find themselves stuck with sealed panes or tiny, high-set openings that barely crack open.

"If you're viewing a flat and can't fully open a window in the bedroom or living area, that’s your first red flag. Check the frames too- older sash windows in particular.

"Condensation inside double glazing usually means failed seals, which spells draughts and higher heating bills."

Is style covering up practical problems?

A flat may well look very sleek, but some stylish flourishes could be covering up some more practical issues.

Rainbow adds: "Open-plan layouts can look great in photos, but they often mean the kitchen dominates the living area or appliances block walkways. When viewing, walk through the flat as if you already live there.

"Where does the sofa go? Can two people move around comfortably? If the only place for a bed is under a sloped ceiling or in front of a window, the charm will wear off fast.

“One giveaway of poor design? Doors that swing into each other or open into tight hallways that can’t even fit a coat hook. And the silent killer in many modern flats: a complete lack of storage.

"Ask yourself where the vacuum, winter coats or suitcase would go. If the only answer is “in plain sight,” expect clutter quickly."

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Give the space a test run

Rainbow advocates for people to do more than just look at the flat on a viewing, as there is a need to test the space out.

He explains: "Run your phone through each room to check the signal (insulation and thickness of walls can kill reception). Turn on the taps and shower- what’s the pressure like? Try the extractor fan. Open the windows, flush the loo, check the boiler.

"If it’s electric-only, bear in mind you're looking at much higher running costs – gas remains significantly cheaper, especially through the winter."