Short answer：Inspect the flat, common areas and documents at a first viewing. Clean finishes do not prove structural condition, title or compliance; investigate concerns with appropriate professionals.
Walk the daily route
Inspect access, lifts and corridors as well as kitchen, bathroom and bedrooms. Observe smells, drainage, ventilation, openings and visible staining. Measure furniture locations and test permitted equipment.
Compare with records
Check area definitions, layout, included interests and tenancy status. Record questions about works, arrears, alterations and possession for the agent, management or solicitor. One favourable visit does not replace document review.
Before deciding
- Revisit for different light and noise
- Obtain permission for photographs
- Keep a follow-up list of concerns
Sources and method
Sources support the specific rules described. Checklists and hypothetical calculations are editorial explanations, not measured market results or individual approvals.
Revision：Removed unsupported experience, case outcomes and statistics; corrected the topic-specific rules and limitations described above.
Scope：General information only, not personalised legal, tax, immigration, admissions or investment advice.