How to inspect a prospective home Once you sign a lease, your options for improving the conditions in and around your rental will be limited. Take the time before you sign to make sure the place you are considering meets your standards. Inspect the Outside 1 Walk or drive around the part of town in which the rental is located. 2 Look for stores and amenities you will need and want. 3 Look at the general conditions of the neighboring buildings and houses. 5 Look for good outside lighting by the entrance. 6 Check around the building and in the parking area, alley and stairways to determine the level of safety. Inspect Common Areas 1. Check out the entrance area. Look for good lighting and cleanliness. 2. Make sure the intercom and security system work, if applicable. 3. Look for a well-maintained lobby, if there is one. 4. Inspect the hallways and stairwells for lighting. 5. Evaluate the elevator for convenience and security, if applicable. Inspect the Unit 1. Take a sniff test to determine whether any bad smells are emanating from the apartment. 2. Examine the door, the locks and the windows for sturdy construction and security. 3. Try all the windows to see if they open. 4. Check the ceilings for water damage. 5. Try all the doors inside the apartment to make sure they shut and open properly. 6. Check the size of the rooms and the doorways to make sure they will accommodate your furniture. 7. Examine the bathroom. Give everything a test run. Watch out for leaks, bad water pressure, poor drainage and poor ventilation. 8. Examine the kitchen. Make sure everything works well, and look for easy-to-clean surfaces, good ventilation and adequate work and storage space. 9. Find out about heating and cooling arrangements for your unit.