Renting a house isn’t just about four walls and a roof. It’s about ensuring peace of mind, value for money, and a lifestyle that actually works for you. Here are some key things to look out for before you commit, with a good blend of common sense and street sense:
1. Location and Neighbourhood: Check how close the house is to your workplace, your kids’ schools, and local markets. Ideally, you want a market within walking distance — not just for convenience, but also for your daily dose of fresh air and street gossip.
Don’t forget to listen to the noise level. Ask around: is there a worship centre with 10 people but speakers for 1,000? Or a bar that turns the whole neighbourhood into a concert venue? You don’t want to be woken up at 1:00 AM with someone screaming “FIRE!” through an amplifier.
2. Rent and Payment Terms: Understand the rent, payment schedule, and any additional fees. Ask if there are hidden charges not reflected in the documents. Always confirm how rent increments are handled. Is there a clear system, or does the landlord just increase rent depending on his mood? Planning ahead is easier when you’re not at the mercy of vibes and vibes alone.
3. Property Condition and Maintenance: Check the house’s age and look carefully at its current state. Take pictures and even record a short video of the place. If anything needs fixing, document it and bring it to the landlord’s attention; before you move in.
Don’t play superhero by fixing major problems without proper agreement. You might end up footing the bill, only for the landlord to raise your rent and then give the house to someone else.
4. Security Features: Look for proper security — gated compound, working entry systems, and a reasonable, level-headed gateman. If the gateman has frequent visits from “random characters,” think twice.
If there are CCTV cameras, check their positions. Turn off all lights and use your phone camera (with flash off) to scan for red blinking lights in private areas. You don’t want to end up as an unwilling actor in someone else’s blue film.
5. Essential Amenities: Check for reliable electricity, clean water, waste disposal, and parking. Some “highbrow” areas look good on the surface but come with expensive Band A light bills and poor drainage — especially when it rains.
Also test mobile network strength. You don’t have to ascend your the window frame or top roof just to send a text or attend a Zoom meeting.
6. Neighbourhood Dynamics: Observe who your neighbours are. If there are many young folks with flashy cars but no visible source of income, and you work from home doing legit work, consider notifying your landlord or the local police — just for your own safety.
If you have kids, especially teens, observe the surroundings. Will your daughter be safe running errands alone? If you hear “Pretty girl, pretty girl!” too often, you may need to look elsewhere.
7. The Landlord: Get a feel for your landlord’s personality. Are they responsive and reasonable, or the type to tell you to “just manage” a leaking wall until it becomes a waterfall? Some will only act when things are completely broken — and still increase the rent afterward.
8. Gated Estates: If the house is in a gated estate, make sure the main security post knows you personally. Exchange phone numbers with the gateman. It helps. Especially on days you come back late or slightly tipsy — you won’t want to be stuck at the gate explaining your existence while your friend is laughing in the car
Final Word: Don’t just fall in love with the paint job or the fancy tiles. Do your homework. Ask questions. Observe. Protect your peace and your pockets.
