In October everything looks dry and tidy. In July, the same street can be a stream. If you are serious about a property, try to see it once in the rain, or ask the people who already live there.
Outside
- Does water stand on the road in front, or on the plot itself?
- Is the plot lower than the road? Water runs downhill, into it.
- Where do the drains go, and are they open or covered?
Inside a flat
- Damp patches on ceiling corners, under windows, and on the wall behind the bathroom.
- Fresh paint on just one wall in an otherwise older flat. Ask why.
- Top-floor flats: ask about terrace waterproofing and when it was last done.
Can't visit in the rain?Knock on two neighbours' doors and ask one question: "What happens here in heavy rain?" People are usually happy to tell you.