A viewing is a chance to gather information, not to settle every legal or technical question. Ask the seller about their experience of living in the home, then pass important answers to your conveyancer or surveyor for checking.
Ask about the property’s history
Which alterations have been made, when were they completed and what records are available? Ask about extensions, loft conversions, replacement windows and changes to the layout. Request documents rather than accepting “the builder dealt with it” as a complete answer.
Make a note of any work you cannot inspect, such as a concealed roof space or an area behind fitted cupboards. Give the list to your surveyor so access limitations can be discussed.
Ask about repairs and recurring problems
Have there been leaks, flooding, movement or repeated drainage problems? What was investigated and repaired, and by whom? Ask whether reports, invoices and guarantees can be supplied. A repair invoice records work undertaken; it does not necessarily establish that every underlying issue has been resolved.
Ask how the services are maintained
Find out the age and service history of the heating system and what electrical records are available. Ask about water pressure, controls, meters and access for maintenance. Avoid assuming that a particular appliance age automatically means replacement, or budgeting from a universal figure quoted online.
Ask about ownership and running arrangements
Which boundaries are maintained by whom? Is any access shared? For a flat, ask about the managing agent, charges and planned works, while making clear that your conveyancer needs to check the formal documents.
Ask what will be included in the sale and what is being removed. Record anything especially important, such as a garden building or fitted appliance, for confirmation through the transaction.
Ask about the move and the neighbourhood
Why are the owners moving, what is their position in the chain and what timing do they have in mind? Ask about everyday noise, parking and local activity, then make your own visits at different times. Do not try to diagnose dishonesty from someone’s body language.
The government’s homebuying guide explains the roles of enquiries, searches and surveys. Keep a dated list of answers and unresolved points so a reassuring conversation does not replace proper checking.
Revised and sources checked on 21 October 2026.