Do I have to visit accommodation before booking ?

Typically, private landlords and landlords will require a visit before granting housing to an applicant. However, private serviced university residences can book accommodation without going through a visit.

Do I need to have submitted an application to visit?

The owners and private landlords can show you around without filing a prior file. You can then provide the necessary documents during or after your visit. University residences receive many applications, especially in the summer. As a result, they only show the accommodation to applicants who have previously submitted an application that has been deemed eligible under their conditions.

How to properly prepare for a rental viewing ?

Q: Can I take photos during the tour ?

Of course, you can take photos. It is even advisable because it will allow you to think carefully about the advisability of renting the apartment. You will also be able to share your impressions with your family, colleagues and friends who may not have been able to accompany you.

Visiting an accommodation allows you to gather a lot of information about the accommodation in which you plan to live. This is a key step in your search for accommodation, which you can prepare for.

Before the visit

Do not hesitate to come to a little before the agreed time to get to know the neighborhood and its surroundings. You can then check the presence (or absence) of services that you deem essential, such as:

Local stores
Public transport lines, road access, cycle paths
Activity centers
...

Also remember to prepare and bring with you, your complete housing application file. This will allow you to show your interest and get ahead of the selection process.

During your visit

First impressions should not exempt from a rigorous examination of the accommodation, a thorough examination of the apartment can avoid unpleasant surprises. The ideal scenario is to visit with a relative or a friend who will see the apartment from a different perspective than you and with whom you can discuss opinions.

Here is a (non-exhaustive) list of points to check during your visit:

The general condition of the accommodation and the proper functioning of the appliances
Water outlets: fully open the taps, flush the toilet (if the water has been cut off, put a written reservation on the lease until the meter is reopened), the toilets
Electrical installation and heating (even in summer). Are they up to standard ?
Count outlets, watch radiators
Make sure there is a telephone socket and a TV antenna socket
Internet connections (optic fiber or ADSL)
Moisture: touch the walls; if they are wet, better give up
Check the condition of paintings and wallpapers, openings (doors, windows, shutters) and the floor
Exhibit of pieces
Open the cupboards
If your rental is furnished, check the condition of the appliances

During your visit, try to imagine your potential daily life in the accommodation, and if you will be able to live there according to your expectations. You can take pictures. This will allow you, to think carefully about the possibility of renting the apartment. You will also be able to share your impressions with your family, colleagues and friends who may not have been able to accompany you.

Questions to ask during your visit

The visit is a great time to clarify rental details. In particular, you will be able to address points such as:

The building: Is the access to the building secure (digital code or intercom)? Is there a super (concierge in French)? How are the mailboxes? Where are the bins stored? Is there a bicycle room or a parking lot and how to get there ?
Charges: What charges are included in your rent? Is the heating collective or individual?
Rental: When is the accommodation available? What is the duration of the contract ? If the accommodation is rented furnished, it is in principle renewable for one year. If it is rented empty, the lease is concluded for three years renewable.

Talk about your application

The visit is also an opportunity for the lessor to learn more about you. If you already have a file prepared with the complete documents, it will be easier for you to apply for the property. The lessor can also consult it and ask you questions if necessary.

The particular case of university residences

University residences receive many applications, especially during the summer. As a result, they only show the accommodation to applicants who have previously submitted an application that has been deemed eligible under their conditions.