The Tenant's Question Checklist (before, during and after the showing)
A practical checklist of questions for tenants to ask at each stage—before booking, during the viewing, while applying, and before signing—plus message templates and red flags. > Viewit tip: Use your ViT List to track places you've messaged, toured, and applied to. Hide ones you've ruled out to keep your shortlist clean. A) Before you book a viewing (from the listing or first message) Ask to clarify: Exact address / cross-street and unit type (actual suite vs. model suite). Total monthly cost: What utilities are included (heat, water, hydro)? Typical monthly hydro? Parking/locker availability and cost. Internet options: Available ISPs and typical speeds. Heating/AC: Type (radiator, heat pump, baseboard), and whether there's in-suite control. Laundry: In-suite vs on-site vs off-site; cost and hours. Pet policy: Allowed? Any size/breed restrictions or pet rent? Move-in timing: Earliest date, flexibility, and hold policy. Application requirements: What documents are needed (ID, proof of income, references, credit consent)? Lease format: Do they use the standard provincial lease? Any additional addenda/house rules to review now? Accessibility: Elevators, step-free entry, door widths, accessible parking. Optional request: A floor plan or short video walkthrough if you're remote.B) At the showing (what to test & ask in person)Test / inspect: Water & fixtures: Hot/cold water pressure; sink/shower drainage; look under sinks for leaks. Windows & doors: Drafts, locking, screens, blinds; balcony rails. Heating/Cooling: Thermostat works; radiators/baseboards heat up; AC present and functional. Appliances: Oven burners/oven, fridge seal, dishwasher cycle start, laundry. Noise & smell: Hallway/street noise; odors from neighbours or garbage chutes. Pest indicators: Traps, droppings, or recent treatments—ask about pest-control schedule. Connectivity: Cell bars inside; ask which ISPs service the unit. Safety: Smoke/CO detectors, door viewer, building entry system, sprinklers where applicable. Building logistics: Package room, bike storage, elevator condition, garbage/recycling locations.Ask the landlord/rep: Typical maintenance response time and how to submit requests. Any upcoming renovations or planned construction affecting noise or access. Move-in elevator booking and any fees. What furniture (if furnished) is included; get an itemized list. > Viewit tip: Snap a few reference photos (kitchen, bath, bedroom, living, view) in the same order for each unit so it's easy to compare later. C) Application phase (what to confirm before sending docs) Timeline: When will you decide? Are there other applications already?Screening criteria: What are the objective criteria (income verification, references, credit)? Deposits & payments: What deposits are requested and when are they due? (Confirm what's allowed under your province's rules.) Utilities setup: Which accounts will be in your name and when to set them up. Insurance: Do you require tenant insurance? Minimum coverage? Parking/locker: Add-on agreements and fees; spot location and type (indoor/outdoor). Sublet/assignment: Policy and process if your plans change later. > Viewit tip: Send a concise Intro Card (who you are, move-in date, employment/school, pets/parking) with your documents so your application is easy to evaluate. D) Lease review (before you sign) Ask for the standard lease for your province + all addenda in advance. Check for unusual or restricted clauses (e.g., excessive fees, restrictions on lawful guests, entry without notice). If something seems off, ask for clarification or removal. Ensure all promises are in writing: included utilities, parking spot #, storage locker #, appliances/furniture list, paint/repair commitments with dates. Confirm rent payment method, due date, grace period, and how to report maintenance.> Heads-up: Rental rules vary by province. If you're unsure, search your provincial housing authority or seek guidance before signing. E) Move-in day checklist Condition report with date-stamped photos/videos (walls, floors, appliances, faucets, windows). Keys/fobs inventory and mailbox number; test all access. Garbage/recycling schedules and locations; building quiet hours/house rules. Contacts: Super/manager, maintenance line, emergency after-hours number. Systems: Thermostat basics, breaker panel, water shut-off, HVAC filter size/interval. F) Tenant message templates (copy/paste) 1) First inquiry (info request + viewing) > Hi, I'm [Name]. I'm looking for a [bed count] near [area] with a [move-in month] start. Could you confirm what utilities are included, internet options, and whether the photos are of the actual unit? I can view on [days/times]. Thanks! 2) Post-showing follow-up > Thanks for the tour of [Address/ViT#]. I'm interested and can start [date]. I've attached my Intro Card and documents (ID, income proof, reference). Please let me know your timeline and if you need anything else. 3) Clarify deposits/fees > Before I proceed, could you confirm the total move-in amount (first/last, any refundable key fob deposit, parking) and what's due at signing vs. move-in? Also, which utilities will be in my name? 4) Polite decline > Thanks for your time showing [Address]. I'm going in a different direction for now, but I appreciate the info and will keep an eye on your future listings. G) Red flags & how to respond Pressure to pay a deposit before viewing or without a proper lease. Refusal to share the lease template or disclose fees in writing. Cash-only requests, requests to hide tenancy, or contradictions between photos and the unit shown. No maintenance process or evasive answers about past issues. Response: Slow down, restate your questions in writing, and be ready to walk away. Report suspicious listings where appropriate.
