What should you check before renting a flat in East London?
Before you rent a place in East London, there are ten things worth checking to avoid unexpected costs, poor maintenance or uncomfortable living conditions. This guide highlights the most common oversights from heating systems to hidden fees and how to avoid them. It’s especially helpful for first time renters, students, working professionals and anyone moving to East London boroughs like Hackney, Newham, Waltham Forest or Tower Hamlets.
You can avoid a lot of trouble by asking these questions while viewing the property.
1. Is the property energy efficient?
An Energy Performance Certificate shows how well a London flat holds heat and how much energy it’s likely to use. It’s rated from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
Landlords must provide a valid certificate before you sign anything. If it’s missing, ask. You can also look it up using the official EPC register. A low rating usually means poor insulation, an old boiler or single glazing, all of which push heating costs up.
2. Can you smell damp or see mould?
Damp tends to smell musty and often shows as black marks around windows, ceilings or corners. Mould isn’t just cosmetic. It can cause breathing issues and is often a sign of poor ventilation.
Bring a torch to check behind beds, under sinks and around the bathroom. Ask if any mould has been treated and what caused it in the first place. Landlords must deal with serious damp under housing health and safety rules.
3. Does the heating and hot water work?
Turn on the taps and shower to check pressure. Ask what type of heating is installed and when the boiler was last serviced. A combi boiler is common in East London flats, but that doesn’t guarantee it works well.
If the heating is off, ask for a quick test. Watch how fast the radiators warm up and whether the thermostat responds. Issues like this tend to show up when it is coldest outside.
Pro Tip: Visit the property at different times of day to check for noise, lighting and foot traffic.
Ehab Barrain
Managing Director at Barrain Estate Agents London
Need Help Renting Your Next Flat?
Our local team helps renters avoid common pitfalls and hidden costs across East London.
4. Have you seen all the safety documents?
By law, landlords must show you:
A valid Gas Safety Certificate
An Electrical Installation Condition Report
Working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
These aren’t optional. They confirm the rental property is safe and legally compliant, as required under UK rental law. If they are not available, that is a concern.
5. What’s included in the rent?
Clarify exactly what’s included. That means:
Utility bills (electricity, gas, water)
Council tax
Internet and TV licence
Furniture and kitchen appliances
East London flats range from fully furnished to empty. Don’t assume WiFi, a washing machine or even a fridge is included. Get it confirmed in writing.
6. Is the building secure?
Check the front door of the building and the flat. Is there a buzzer, intercom or CCTV? Inside, look for bolt locks, a latch or a deadlock on the door.
Open windows and test locks. Weak security can leave you feeling unsafe and might invalidate your renters insurance. Fire exits should be easy to reach and not blocked.
Pro Tip: Always ask for safety documents upfront, if they hesitate, it’s a warning sign.
Ehab Barrain
Managing Director at Barrain Estate Agents London
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7. Who handles repairs and how fast?
Ask who you contact if something goes wrong, the landlord or a letting agent? Do they have someone on call for emergencies?
You’ll want to know what happens if the boiler stops working or drains clog. Find out how long repairs usually take and whether they use reliable contractors.
8. What’s the noise like?
Visit the street in the evening or at the weekend. Are there pubs, music venues or busy roads nearby? If possible, speak to someone already living there.
Ask if the flat has double glazing or if the walls seem thin. Daytime viewings can be misleading. What seems quiet at noon may be loud at midnight.
9. Are the move-in costs clear?
You’ll usually pay:
A holding deposit
A security deposit (capped at five weeks rent)
First month’s rent
Ask how your deposit will be protected. The Deposit Protection Service is widely used. Check there are no hidden charges. Admin fees aren’t allowed. A written breakdown helps avoid confusion. Make sure the letting agreement includes any terms promised to you before signing.
10. Does the area suit your everyday life?
Think about how the location fits your routine. Try walking to the station. Use Google Maps to test commute times. Ask:
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Are there shops, parks or a GP nearby?
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Does the area feel safe at night?
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Will you need a parking permit?
Neighbourhoods vary a lot in East London. A flat that looks ideal on paper might not feel right once you are there. It’s worth walking the area before you decide.
Final tip: get everything confirmed in writing
If the landlord agrees to fix something or provide a particular item, ask for it in writing. A short email will do.
Renting in East London moves quickly, but that doesn’t mean you should rush. These checks help you make a smart, informed choice.
Quick checklist before you rent in East London
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Check the EPC rating
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Look for damp and smell for mould
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Test the heating and water pressure
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Ask for all safety certificates
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Confirm what’s included in the rent
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Check door locks and entry systems
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Ask who handles repairs and how long they take
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Visit the street at night and listen for noise
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Get a full breakdown of move-in costs
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Walk the area and check if it fits your routine
What are some red flags when dealing with landlords or agents
Most landlords and letting agents are reasonable, but be cautious if you notice any of these:
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Refusing to provide legal documents (EPC, Gas Safety Certificate, deposit protection info)
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Asking for cash only
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Rushing you to sign the agreement
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Avoiding questions about repairs or tenancy details
You can check if they’ve been reported using the rogue landlord and agent checker at gov.uk.
Renting in a flatshare or HMO? Here’s what to know
If you’re renting a room in a shared home or house in multiple occupation (HMO), make sure:
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The property has a licence if it’s required (often for five or more people)
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Everyone knows who handles cleaning and shared bills
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Safety checks cover both private and shared areas
Flatshares are common across East London. Knowing your rights in a shared setup is just as important as in a solo tenancy.
