What questions do I need to ask before signing a lease on a flat?

[beansmum]

I'm on the other side of the world, so wont be able to view it. I've seen photos (a bit grotty but ok) and it's in the
perfect area. What do I need to know?

How long notice periods etc, how long are you tied in for, garden rights, who's responsibile for council tax bills/decoration/can you put shelves up etc -will keep thinking...

Thanks! I'll make a list.

it's http://www.raywhite.co.nz/property-details.aspx?RefID=CHCT12368&LastUpdated=2008-09-06%2007:06:18 this one if that helps.

this

no this?

NZ???

TAKE ME WITH YOU!!!

If you would pay half the rent you would be more than welcome! It's $50 over my budget but I really want to have somewhere sorted before I get there.

Can anyone think of anything else? I'm composing an email with a BIG list of questions.

anyone?

We had to move into rented last summer whilst our new house was being built.

We didn't find out that the electricity meter was by card until the day we moved in!! And it was in debit. The nearest place to buy a card was miles away. We kicked up a fuss and the letting agents sent someone round with a card and got the electricity company to change it to a normal meter (but had to wait 10 days for this). So check utility arrangements!

I have just filled in an application form. Scary. I wont sign the lease until I get answers to my massive list of questions. I think the letting agent wanted to check my references and stuff before she bothered answering.