A property viewing isn't just about whether you like the look of the place. It's your main opportunity to discover problems that photos won't show and to evaluate whether the landlord is someone you can work with. Before you even book the viewing, make sure the listing itself checks out; see Rental Scam Prevention for the common warning signs. Here's how to make the most of it.
Before the Viewing
Prepare a checklist so you don't forget things in the moment. Bring:
- Your phone (for photos and measurements)
- A phone charger or power bank (to test outlets)
- A short list of your must-have criteria
Schedule viewings in daylight if possible: it gives you a much more accurate picture of light, condition, and the neighbourhood.
Infrastructure Checks (10 Items)
1. Test every light switch
Flick every switch in every room. Note any that don't work.
2. Test every outlet
Plug in your phone charger and verify it draws power. Check outlets in multiple rooms.
3. Check the water heater
Turn on the hot water and wait. Check pressure and temperature. Cold-only or low-pressure is a sign of a plumbing issue.
4. Flush the toilet
Check that it flushes properly and doesn't run continuously.
5. Run the shower and sinks
Check pressure and drainage. Slow drainage may indicate a blockage.
6. Test the air conditioning
Turn it on and verify it cools. Check for unusual noises.
7. Check the washing machine (if included)
Start a cycle or at minimum verify it powers on and the drum spins.
8. Look for mold
Check corners of walls, under windows, around the bathroom ceiling, and inside any wardrobes. Mold is a health hazard and expensive to remediate properly.
9. Look for water stains and cracks
Yellowing on ceilings or walls, paint bubbling or peeling, and visible cracks can all indicate past or ongoing water ingress.
10. Check doors and windows
Open and close every door and window. Do they seal properly? Do locks work? Is there a security grille or shutter where you want one?
Environment Checks (5 Items)
11. Noise levels
Stand quietly for a minute and listen. Traffic, machinery, nightlife: these will be part of your daily life. If possible, visit at different times of day (e.g., afternoon and evening).
12. Natural light
Which direction do the windows face? North-facing apartments in Taiwan get significantly less direct sun. Small windows in a south-facing room can still be quite bright.
13. Ventilation
Can windows open freely? Is there airflow between rooms? Poor ventilation increases humidity and mold risk.
14. Neighbourhood safety
Take a short walk around the block. Is it well-lit at night? Are there signs of neglect or security issues in the building lobby?
15. Nearby amenities
Convenience stores, supermarkets, laundromats, MRT access. What's within walking distance?
Building Checks (5 Items)
16. Lift condition
If the building has a lift, is it maintained? Does it feel safe?
17. Rubbish and recycling
Where and when is rubbish collected? Is there a recycling area?
18. Building security
Is there a code-entry door or security guard? How do guests access the building?
19. Parking situation
If you have a scooter or car, is there parking available? What's the cost?
20. Neighbours and building atmosphere
Are common areas clean? Is there evidence that people are living here respectfully?
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Questions to Ask the Landlord
- How are utilities calculated? Do they charge the official Taiwan Power rate or add a service fee?
- Can I set up my own internet connection?
- Who handles repairs? Who pays if an included appliance breaks?
- What's the rubbish collection schedule?
- Is the building managed by a property company (管委會)?
- How long has the unit been vacant? Why did the previous tenant leave?
- What's the earliest possible move-in date?
After the Viewing
Write down your impressions immediately: you'll forget the details if you view multiple properties in a day. Rate the property on your must-haves and record any issues you noticed.
If you're interested, ask how quickly you need to decide. Then make your decision based on facts, not pressure. Once you're ready to move forward, work through the rental contract checklist before you sign.
Summary
A thorough viewing takes about 30–45 minutes. Use that time well. The things you find (or miss) during a viewing often determine whether the tenancy goes smoothly, and whether you get your deposit back. On move-in day, the move-in inspection checklist picks up where this one leaves off.