When you look for a place to rent, you want somewhere that is wind and watertight, with efficient heating, appliances that work reliably, and where you feel safe.
You want a landlord who will fix things promptly if they go wrong. The landlord wants a tenant who will keep the place clean, look after it and let him know if something needs fixed, before a small problem becomes a big one.
So what should you look for?
The law sets out some responsibilities for landlords and tenants in terms of maintenance and repairs. It also addresses some specific safety issues: gas, electrical and furnishings. If your home is a house in multiple occupation, it will need to meet physical standards set by the licensing authority.
There are a range of other issues you should consider, including security and fire safety, and good practice on gas and electricity beyond the legal requirements. This section also covers how to deal with the inventory.