Insights

A sensory checklist for property viewings

A practical guide to seeing, hearing, smelling, feeling and testing a home.

Published 25 November 2022

Updated September 2026. A viewing supports due diligence but does not replace title, plan, building, legal or technical checks.

A sensory viewing checklist

  1. See: light, outlook, privacy, cracks, stains, workmanship and common-area upkeep.
  2. Hear: roads, trains, neighbours, equipment and peak-hour activity.
  3. Smell: dampness, drainage, smoke, refuse and ventilation issues.
  4. Feel: heat, airflow, humidity, floor vibration and spatial comfort.
  5. Test: doors, windows, water pressure, fittings, lifts and mobile signal where permitted.

Visit at more than one time, document material observations, and engage qualified professionals when a condition may affect safety, cost or value.