How to Inspect an Apartment Before Renting: A Complete Checklist for Malta
How to Inspect an Apartment Before Renting: A Complete Checklist for Malta
Finding an apartment listing that looks promising is only half the battle. The photographs might show a bright, modern space with stunning views. The description might promise everything you're looking for. But until you step through the door and inspect the property yourself, you cannot truly know what you're getting into.
Apartment viewings are your opportunity to assess whether a property matches its listing, identify potential problems, and gather the information you need to make an informed decision. Yet many renters treat viewings as a formality, spending just a few minutes glancing around before deciding based on gut feeling. This approach can lead to unpleasant surprises after you've signed the contract and handed over your deposit.
In Malta's competitive rental market, the pressure to act quickly can make thorough inspections feel like a luxury you can't afford. But taking an extra fifteen or twenty minutes to check a property systematically can save you months of frustration, unexpected costs, and the hassle of moving again sooner than planned.
This guide provides a comprehensive checklist for inspecting rental apartments in Malta. We'll cover what to examine, what questions to ask, what warning signs to watch for, and how to document your findings. Whether you're a first-time renter or a seasoned tenant, this structured approach will help you evaluate properties with confidence.
Before the Viewing: Preparation Matters
A successful apartment inspection begins before you arrive at the property. Proper preparation ensures you make the most of your viewing time and don't forget to check important details.
Review the Listing Thoroughly
Before the viewing, study the listing carefully. Note the stated features, included amenities, and any specifics mentioned. This gives you a checklist of claims to verify. If the listing says the apartment has air conditioning in every room, you'll know to check each room. If it mentions a washing machine, you'll confirm it exists and works.
Write down any questions that arise from the listing. Ambiguous phrases like "bills included" need clarification. Does that mean all bills, or just water? What about internet? Preparing questions in advance ensures you get answers.
Research the Building and Area
If possible, learn about the building before your visit. Is it a newer construction or an older block? Are there known issues with the development? For larger buildings, online reviews or forums might reveal resident experiences.
Research the neighbourhood too. What's the traffic like during rush hour? Are there nearby construction projects that might cause noise or disruption? Is the area prone to flooding during heavy rain? Understanding the context helps you evaluate the apartment within its environment.
Gather Your Tools
Bring items that will help you conduct a thorough inspection:
A smartphone for taking photographs and videos, testing the mobile signal strength, and noting details.
A small torch for checking dark corners, under sinks, and inside cupboards.
A notebook and pen for writing observations and questions.
A tape measure if furniture fit is important to you.
A phone charger to test electrical outlets.
The listing printout to compare against reality.
Schedule Wisely
If possible, schedule viewings during daylight hours to assess natural light. Avoid back-to-back viewings that might rush you. Give yourself enough time to be thorough without pressure.
Consider visiting the neighbourhood at different times if the apartment interests you. An area that seems quiet on a Tuesday morning might be very different on a Friday night.
First Impressions: The Building Exterior and Common Areas
Your inspection begins before you enter the apartment itself. The building's exterior and common areas reveal much about the property's overall management and the environment you'll be living in.
Building Exterior
As you approach, observe the building's general condition. Look at the facade for cracks, water staining, or signs of poor maintenance. Check the condition of external paintwork, balconies, and any visible structural elements.
Note the entrance. Is it secure? Is there an intercom system that works? Can anyone walk in off the street, or is access controlled? Security matters, particularly if you'll be living alone or keeping valuables in the apartment.
Look at the building's surroundings. Is there adequate lighting for nighttime access? Is the immediate area well-maintained or neglected? Are there overflowing bins or accumulated rubbish?
Common Areas
Once inside, assess the common areas. The state of these spaces often reflects how well the building is managed and how considerate the other residents are.
Check the entrance hall and stairwell. Are they clean and well-lit? Is there any accumulated dirt, debris, or unpleasant odours? Musty smells might indicate damp problems that could affect individual apartments.
If there's a lift, note its condition. Does it work? How does it sound when operating? An old, poorly maintained lift can be inconvenient at best and a safety concern at worst.
Look at the condition of walls, floors, and ceilings in common areas. Peeling paint, cracked tiles, or water stains suggest deferred maintenance. If the building management neglects shared spaces, they may also neglect structural issues affecting individual units.
Check notice boards for any resident communications that might reveal ongoing issues, planned works, or building rules you should know about.
If the building has shared facilities like a roof terrace, parking area, or bin storage, inspect these too. Their condition contributes to your overall living experience.
Inside the Apartment: Room-by-Room Inspection
Now for the apartment itself. Work through each area systematically rather than wandering randomly. This ensures you don't miss anything.
General First Impressions
Stand in the main living area and absorb your initial impressions. Does the space feel as large as the listing suggested? Does it feel bright or dark? Is there any immediate odour – damp, mould, cigarette smoke, cooking smells from poor ventilation?
Look at the overall condition of walls, ceilings, and floors throughout the apartment. Freshly painted walls might look good but could be covering problems. Stained ceilings often indicate water damage from above. Uneven floors might suggest structural settling or poor construction.
Living Areas
In the living room and any other general living spaces:
Walls and ceilings: Look for cracks, particularly around corners and where walls meet ceilings. Small hairline cracks are often cosmetic, but larger cracks or those that have been repeatedly filled might indicate structural movement. Check for damp patches, discolouration, or bubbling paint that suggests moisture problems.
Floors: Walk across the floor, feeling for unevenness or soft spots. If there's flooring over concrete, soft areas might indicate water damage. Check the condition of tiles, wooden flooring, or carpet. Note any damage that exists so it's documented before you move in.
Windows: Open and close all windows. Do they operate smoothly? Do they seal properly when closed? Check the condition of frames, particularly for wooden frames that might be rotting or aluminium frames that might be corroding. Look for condensation between double-glazed panes, which indicates seal failure. Assess the quality of any blinds or shutters.
Natural light: Note how much natural light enters the room and from which direction. North-facing rooms receive less direct sunlight. Consider how the light situation will feel at different times of day and seasons.
Electrical outlets: Count the outlets and note their positions. Are there enough for your needs? Are they conveniently located? If possible, test outlets using your phone charger. Check for any signs of scorching or damage around outlets.
Light fixtures: Test all light switches. Do all lights work? Note the type and quality of lighting fixtures and consider whether you'll need additional lighting.
Ventilation: Assess how air moves through the space. Are there adequate windows for cross-ventilation? Malta's summers are hot, and good airflow significantly affects comfort.
Kitchen
The kitchen often receives the most intensive daily use, so inspect it thoroughly.
Cabinets and storage: Open all cabinet doors and drawers. Check that hinges and runners work smoothly. Look inside cabinets for signs of pest activity, water damage, or mould. Assess whether there's adequate storage for your needs.
Countertops: Examine work surfaces for damage, staining, or wear. Check the seal where counters meet walls and around sinks. Deteriorated seals allow water penetration and subsequent damage.
Sink and taps: Run both hot and cold water. Check the water pressure and how quickly hot water arrives. Look under the sink for signs of leaks, water damage, or mould. Check the drain flows freely without gurgling or slow drainage.
Appliances: If appliances are included, test each one.
For the refrigerator: Is it running? Is the interior clean? Does the freezer compartment work? Check door seals for integrity.
For the oven and hob: Turn on all burners or elements and confirm they heat. Check the oven reaches temperature. Look inside for cleanliness and condition.
For the dishwasher if present: Run a short cycle to confirm it operates without leaks.
For the washing machine if present: Similarly, run a cycle to test operation.
Note the age and condition of appliances. Older appliances may be less energy-efficient and more likely to fail during your tenancy.
Ventilation: Kitchens need adequate ventilation to remove cooking odours and moisture. Is there an extractor hood or fan? Does it work? Can the kitchen window open adequately?
Bathroom
Bathrooms are prone to moisture-related problems, so careful inspection is essential.
Toilet: Flush the toilet and confirm it refills and seals properly. Check around the base for any signs of water damage or leakage. Is the toilet securely fixed to the floor?
Sink and taps: Test hot and cold water flow and pressure. Check under the sink for leaks. Examine the condition of sealant around the sink.
Shower or bath: Run the shower at full pressure. How is the water pressure? How quickly does hot water arrive? Check the showerhead condition and spray pattern. Examine the shower enclosure or curtain arrangement. Look for mould or mildew in grout lines, corners, and around the base of the enclosure. Check that water drains quickly without pooling.
Ventilation: Bathrooms generate significant moisture. Is there an extractor fan? Does it work? If not, is there a window that opens adequately? Poor bathroom ventilation leads to mould problems.
Tiles and grout: Examine tiles for cracks or loose pieces. Check grout lines for deterioration, mould, or gaps. Press on tiles around the shower area to check they're firmly attached.
Ceiling and walls: Look up. Bathroom ceilings often show the first signs of condensation problems or leaks from above. Check for peeling paint, dark spots, or active mould growth.
Storage: Assess cabinet or shelving space for toiletries and towels.
Bedrooms
For each bedroom:
Size and layout: Consider whether your furniture will fit. Can you comfortably fit a bed of your preferred size plus essential furniture? Is there space to move around?
Windows: As with living areas, check operation, seals, and natural light. Bedroom windows should provide adequate ventilation for comfortable sleeping.
Wardrobes and storage: If built-in wardrobes are provided, open them and check their condition and capacity. Look for signs of damp or musty smells that might indicate moisture problems.
Noise: Bedrooms should be conducive to sleep. Consider the room's position relative to the street, neighbouring apartments, and any building noise sources like lifts or utilities.
Electrical: Ensure there are outlets conveniently positioned for bedside lamps, phone charging, and other needs.
Systems and Infrastructure
Beyond individual rooms, assess the apartment's core systems that affect daily living.
Electrical System
Consumer unit or fuse box: Locate the electrical panel. Does it look modern and well-maintained, or outdated and neglected? A modern consumer unit with residual current devices provides better safety.
Outlet condition: Throughout the apartment, check outlets for secure fitting, no visible damage, and no scorch marks. Loose or damaged outlets are safety hazards.
Capacity: Consider whether the electrical system seems adequate for modern demands. Old buildings with minimal wiring may struggle with multiple appliances running simultaneously.
Plumbing
Water pressure: You've tested individual taps and showers, but consider overall water pressure. Upper-floor apartments sometimes suffer from reduced pressure, particularly during peak usage times.
Hot water: Is hot water provided by an electric heater, gas boiler, or central system? How long does it take for hot water to reach different outlets? Is the supply likely to meet your needs?
Visible pipes: Where you can see pipes under sinks or in utility areas, check for corrosion, leaks, or temporary repairs that might indicate ongoing problems.
Heating and Cooling
Malta's mild winters make central heating uncommon, but summers demand effective cooling.
Air conditioning: If the apartment has AC units, note their type, age, and location. Test them if possible. Window units are noisier and less efficient than split systems. Check that AC covers the bedrooms, where cooling matters most for sleep.
Heating: For winter, are there any heating provisions? Some apartments have reverse-cycle AC that provides heating. Others rely on portable heaters. Consider how you'll stay warm on cooler evenings.
Insulation: While hard to assess directly, indicators of insulation quality include window type, wall thickness, and whether the building is older or newer construction. Poor insulation means higher utility bills and less comfort.
Internet and Communications
Mobile signal: Check your phone signal strength throughout the apartment. Some buildings, particularly older ones with thick walls, can have poor reception in certain areas.
Internet provision: Ask about internet options. Is there fibre connectivity to the building? What speeds are available? For those working from home, reliable internet is essential.
TV connections: If you plan to use cable or satellite TV, check for existing connections and provisions.
Safety and Security
Your safety in the apartment depends on several factors worth checking.
Fire Safety
Smoke detectors: Are there smoke detectors installed? Do they appear functional? If not present, consider installing your own.
Fire extinguisher: A small fire extinguisher in the kitchen is prudent. Note if one is provided.
Escape route: Consider how you would exit in an emergency. Is there a clear route? For upper floors, is there a fire escape or alternative exit?
Gas safety: If the apartment uses gas for cooking or hot water, check that appliances appear properly installed with adequate ventilation. Look for flexible gas hoses in good condition without cracks or deterioration.
Security
Door locks: Examine the main entrance door. Is it solid? Are the locks adequate? A good quality deadlock provides better security than a simple latch. If the lock seems inadequate, negotiate for an upgrade before moving in.
Windows: Ground and first-floor windows are potential entry points. Can they be secured properly? Are there bars, shutters, or other security measures?
Building access: As assessed earlier, how secure is overall building access? Who else has access to common areas?
General Safety
Balconies: If there's a balcony, check the railing height and stability. Are there any gaps or hazards, particularly if you have children?
Stairs: Internal stairs should have secure handrails and adequate lighting.
Slip hazards: Note any uneven flooring, loose tiles, or other trip hazards.
Environmental Factors
Some issues relate to the apartment's environment rather than its physical condition.
Noise
Spend a few quiet minutes listening. What can you hear? Traffic from nearby roads? Aircraft approaching the airport? Music from neighbouring apartments? A school playground? Building mechanical systems?
Ask the landlord or current occupants about noise at different times. Evening and weekend noise patterns may differ from when you're viewing.
Consider the apartment's position within the building. Top-floor apartments avoid upstairs neighbours but may have roof noise in rain. Ground-floor apartments avoid stair climbing but may have less privacy and security.
Natural Light and Aspect
Note which direction the apartment faces. South-facing rooms receive the most sunlight in winter but can overheat in summer. North-facing rooms stay cooler but may feel dark. East-facing rooms get morning sun; west-facing rooms get afternoon and evening sun.
Consider how surrounding buildings affect light. Nearby tall buildings can block sun and create shadows, particularly in winter when the sun is lower.
Ventilation and Air Quality
Can you create cross-ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides? Good airflow reduces the need for air conditioning and improves comfort.
Are there any sources of poor air quality nearby? Main roads bring exhaust fumes. Industrial areas may have odours or pollution. Construction sites generate dust.
Pests
While you're unlikely to see pests during a viewing, look for signs. Droppings in cupboards, particularly in the kitchen, indicate mice or cockroaches. Small holes in woodwork might suggest woodworm. Damaged food packaging or gnaw marks are red flags.
Ask directly if there have been any pest issues in the building. Pest problems are common in Malta's warm climate and can be difficult to eliminate entirely.
Questions to Ask
Beyond your physical inspection, gather information through questions. Prepare these in advance and don't be afraid to ask even if they feel awkward.
About the Property
How old is the building and when was the apartment last renovated?
Have there been any significant problems with the property, such as flooding, structural issues, or pest infestations?
What is the water heating system, and how does it perform?
Are the air conditioning units serviced regularly?
What is the average electricity and water bill for this apartment?
Is the furniture currently shown included in the rental?
Are any appliances due for replacement?
What is the mobile phone signal like inside the apartment?
What internet options are available, and what speeds can be achieved?
About the Tenancy
What is the minimum contract term?
What is the monthly rent, and are there any additional costs?
Are any utilities included in the rent?
What is the deposit amount and the conditions for its return?
What notice period is required to end the tenancy?
Who is responsible for maintenance and repairs?
How are repairs typically handled, and what is the usual response time?
Are there any restrictions on property use, such as pets, smoking, or subletting?
Can I make minor modifications, like hanging pictures or painting?
Is the lease registered as required by Maltese law?
About the Building and Neighbours
How many apartments are in the building?
Are there any shared costs or building management fees?
What is the situation with rubbish collection and bin storage?
Is there parking available, and how is it allocated?
What are the neighbours like? Are there any known issues?
Are there any planned works or developments affecting the building?
About the Landlord
How quickly do you typically respond to maintenance requests?
Will you be managing the property directly, or is there a management company?
How do you prefer to communicate?
How often do you visit or inspect the property?
Red Flags to Watch For
Certain observations should raise concerns and warrant further investigation or reconsideration.
Structural and Maintenance Red Flags
Significant cracks: Large cracks, particularly those that are diagonal or have been repeatedly filled, may indicate structural problems.
Damp and mould: Visible damp patches, mould growth, or musty smells suggest moisture problems that can affect health and property condition. Damp is particularly common in older Maltese buildings and can be difficult to resolve.
Water staining: Marks on ceilings or walls indicate past or current leaks. Ask about the source and whether it's been properly fixed.
Poor quality repairs: Rushed or amateurish repair work suggests a landlord who cuts corners. This attitude likely extends to future maintenance.
Deteriorating fixtures: If the landlord hasn't maintained basic elements like taps, door handles, and light fixtures, they may not address larger issues either.
Safety Red Flags
Outdated electrical system: Old fuse boxes, minimal outlets, or evidence of DIY electrical work raise safety concerns.
Unsafe gas installations: Improper gas connections, corroded pipes, or inadequate ventilation around gas appliances are serious hazards.
Insecure entry points: Flimsy doors, broken locks, or easily accessible windows compromise security.
Missing safety features: No smoke detectors, blocked fire escapes, or dangerous balcony conditions deserve attention.
Environmental Red Flags
Excessive noise: If noise is problematic during a brief viewing, it will be worse over weeks and months of residence.
Poor natural light: Dark apartments affect mood and energy consumption. Consider whether you can live with limited natural light.
Bad odours: Persistent smells indicate problems. Drains, damp, cigarette smoke, and cooking odours may be difficult to eliminate.
Signs of pests: Any evidence of rodents, cockroaches, or other pests should be taken seriously. Infestations are easier to prevent than to cure.
Landlord Red Flags
Evasive answers: A landlord who avoids direct questions about problems, costs, or terms may be hiding issues.
Pressure to commit: While the market moves fast, a landlord who pressures you to sign immediately without time to consider may be trying to prevent closer scrutiny.
Reluctance to document: Landlords unwilling to provide a proper contract, register the lease, or conduct an inventory may cause problems later.
Poor communication: If the landlord is difficult to contact or slow to respond before you're a tenant, this will likely continue during your tenancy.
Documenting Your Inspection
Whatever you find, document it thoroughly. Good documentation protects you if disputes arise later.
During the Viewing
Take photographs of every room from multiple angles. Photograph any existing damage, wear, or issues you notice, no matter how minor. Close-up shots of problems provide evidence of their condition at viewing time.
Consider taking a video walkthrough, narrating what you observe. This captures details you might forget and provides a dated record.
Write notes immediately after viewing while your memory is fresh. Record your impressions, concerns, and any information the landlord provided.
If You Decide to Rent
Before signing the contract, request or conduct a formal inventory with the landlord. This document lists all contents and their condition. Both parties should sign it.
Take comprehensive photographs on move-in day, dated and backed up securely. These photos prove the property's condition when you received it.
Report any issues you find during your first days in writing to the landlord. This creates a record that problems existed from the start, not from your use.
Keep copies of all communications with your landlord, all receipts related to the property, and all documents signed.
Comparing Multiple Properties
If you're viewing several apartments, comparison becomes important.
Create a consistent system for evaluating properties. A simple scoring system covering key factors helps objectify comparisons. Rate each property on condition, location, value for money, space, natural light, noise levels, and any factors particularly important to you.
Don't rely on memory alone. With multiple viewings, details blur together. Refer to your notes, photos, and scores when making decisions.
Consider making a shortlist and revisiting top candidates before deciding. A second viewing often reveals details missed initially, and experiencing a property twice gives better insight.
Be wary of comparing an excellent listing with photos to a mediocre property you've actually visited. The visited property is real; the listing is marketing. Always view before committing.
Making Your Decision
After thorough inspection, you're equipped to decide. Consider:
Does the property meet your needs? Space, location, condition, included amenities – does it provide what you require for daily life?
Are there any unacceptable issues? Some problems are dealbreakers. Serious damp, safety hazards, or an unresponsive landlord might mean walking away regardless of other factors.
Are minor issues acceptable or negotiable? Some problems can be fixed before you move in. Missing appliances can be added. Minor repairs can be completed. If you're otherwise interested, negotiate these points.
Is the price fair? Considering condition, location, and inclusions, does the rent represent reasonable value? If the price seems high for what's offered, either negotiate or look elsewhere.
Does the landlord seem reliable? Your relationship with the landlord matters. A responsive, reasonable landlord makes tenancy smoother. Red flags about the landlord might outweigh positives about the property.
What does your instinct say? After all the analysis, how do you feel about the apartment? Can you see yourself living there happily? Trust your gut alongside your checklist.
Conclusion
Inspecting an apartment thoroughly takes time and attention, but it's one of the most valuable investments you can make in your rental experience. The difference between a careful inspection and a casual glance might be months of dealing with problems you could have identified in advance.
Malta's rental market moves quickly, and pressure to decide can feel intense. But a few extra minutes checking water pressure, opening cupboards, and asking questions is always worthwhile. Problems discovered after signing the contract are far more difficult to address than those caught during viewing.
Use the checklist in this guide to approach your apartment viewings systematically. Prepare before you arrive, inspect methodically while you're there, ask questions without hesitation, document what you find, and make your decision based on evidence rather than hope.
The right apartment is out there. Taking the time to inspect properties properly ensures that when you find it, you'll know with confidence that it's the home you're looking for.
At MyRent.mt, we're committed to helping renters find quality properties across Malta and Gozo. Browse our listings to find your next apartment, and approach each viewing equipped with the knowledge to choose wisely. Your future home awaits.