APARTMENT VIEWING CHECKLIST

Property:
Viewing date:

Bring this list with you when you view an apartment. It helps you remember what matters — not just how the apartment looks, but the condition of the building, the finances of the housing association and the surroundings. Tick off what you check and jot down notes as you go. Take photos of anything that raises questions.

It is a good idea to view an apartment during daylight, and ideally twice before making an offer.

CONDITION OF THE APARTMENT

• Damp and mould — check corners, windows, the bathroom and external walls. Smell the air for a musty or damp odour.
• Windows — do they open and close properly? Condensation between panes? Seals or rot in the frames?
• Plumbing — turn on the taps, shower and dishwasher. Check water pressure, hot water and for leaks under sinks.
• Electrical panel — age and condition of the panel. Are there residual-current devices (RCDs)? They are required in homes wired or rewired under current rules, but older wiring may not have them. Enough outlets?
• Floors — does the floor slope? Creaking, loose tiles or parquet, any damage?
• Walls and ceilings — cracks, damp patches, unevenness or signs of past repairs.
• Ventilation and heating — do the radiators work? Ventilation in the bathroom and kitchen?

BUILDING AND COMMON AREAS

• Roof — age and condition. Has the roof been replaced or is that planned?
• Exterior walls — cracks, damp, alkali damage or maintenance needs on the outside.
• Stairwell — general condition, cleaning and lighting. Is there a lift and does it work?
• Laundry — shared or inside the apartment? Condition of appliances and the arrangement.
• Storage — is a private storage unit included? Where is it and how big?
• Parking — is an assigned space included or is it first come, first served? Garage or EV charging?
• Shared spaces — bicycle storage, garden, bin store.

HOUSING ASSOCIATION (HÚSFÉLAG)

• Maintenance fund — is there one, and how much is in it? It isn't required by law, but the apartment's share goes with it on sale. A strong fund means less risk of unexpected levies.
• Planned works — is anything coming up (roof, windows, plumbing, painting)? Estimated cost per apartment?
• Service charges — how high are the monthly charges and what do they include?
• Minutes and accounts — ask the seller for the latest meeting minutes and the association's annual accounts.
• Declaration of division (eignaskiptayfirlýsing) and house rules — is there a declaration of division, and are there rules on, e.g., pets, short-term letting or alterations?

NEIGHBOURHOOD

• Noise — traffic, nightlife, neighbours. Try to visit at different times of day.
• Transport — buses, cycle paths, access to main roads, distance to work/school.
• Amenities — shops, preschool/school, health centre, green spaces.

QUESTIONS FOR THE SELLER

• Why is the property being sold?
• How long has the seller owned it?
• Has there been any water damage, leaks or mould? What was done about it?
• When was it last renovated (bathroom, kitchen, plumbing, floors)?
• Are there documents or warranties for any works carried out?
• Are there any encumbrances, mortgages or unresolved matters on the property?
• What is included in the sale (appliances, lights, curtains)?

NOTES

This is a general checklist for information and guidance, not legal or real-estate advice. We recommend obtaining a professional condition survey and having all documents reviewed before making a binding offer.

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