Eyeing one of those stunning, fully furnished rentals in South Yarra? Nice choice! It’s one of the most sought-after suburbs in Melbourne, and for good reason: tree-lined streets, Chapel Street shopping just around the corner, some of the best cafés this side of the Yarra – what’s not to love?

But here’s the thing: inspecting a furnished apartment isn’t quite the same as checking out an empty place. You’ve got more to look at, more to test, and honestly, more that could potentially go wrong. Don’t sweat, though – we’ve got your back. This extensive checklist will walk you through how to check out your would-be new place like an absolute pro, so that you can move in with peace of mind and avoid any nasty surprises later on.

Why Furnished Apartments Need Extra Scrutiny

We totally get it: when you’re on the hunt for a place in South Yarra, it’s dead easy to get swept up in the excitement. The apartment looks absolutely mint in the photos, the location’s spot on, and you’re already picturing yourself enjoying a flat white on that balcony. But honestly, taking the time to give a furnished rental a proper once-over could save you from some serious headaches – and a fair whack of cash – down the line.

Unlike unfurnished places, where you’re mainly checking the structure and fixtures, furnished apartments come with furniture, appliances, and all sorts of bits and pieces that need checking. You want to make sure everything works as it should, because once you sign that lease, you’re responsible for keeping everything in the same condition it was when you moved in.

Before You Even Walk Through the Door

Let’s start at the very beginning. Before you rock up to the inspection, there are a few things worth doing:

Do Your Homework

Have a squiz at the listing photos again and make a mental note of what’s supposed to be included. Is there a dishwasher? What about a washing machine? Air conditioning? Write it down if you need to – you’d be surprised how easy it is to forget things once you’re actually there.

Check the Weather

This might sound odd, but try to inspect on a rainy day if you can. It’s the best way to spot potential leaks, drainage issues, or damp problems. If it’s been dry for weeks, you might miss something important.

Bring Your Inspection Kit

Come prepared with your phone (for photos and videos), a notepad, a tape measure, and maybe even a mate who can offer a second opinion. Two sets of eyes are always better than one, especially when you’re making a big decision.

The Room-by-Room Inspection Guide

The Living Areas

Let’s kick off with the main living spaces – where you’ll probably spend most of your time when you’re not out exploring Melbourne.

Furniture Condition

Give every piece of furniture a proper once-over. We’re talking sofas, coffee tables, dining chairs – the lot. Sit on the couch (don’t be shy!), pull out dining chairs, and check for:

• Stains, tears, or worn fabric
• Wobbly legs or loose joints
• Scratches or water damage on wooden surfaces
• Whether cushions are still firm or completely done for

Take photos of any existing damage. Trust me on this one – you’ll thank yourself later when it comes time to move out.

Windows and Doors

Open and close every single window and door. Check that:

• Locks work properly (this is a safety thing, yeah?)
• There are no cracks in the glass
• Screens are intact (Melbourne mozzies are no joke in summer)
• They seal properly when closed (your heating bills will thank you)

Lighting and Electrics

Flick every light switch and test all power points. Bring a phone charger to test the outlets if you want to be thorough. Look out for:

• Light bulbs that need replacing
• Switches that don’t work
• Loose power points
• Any exposed wiring (that’s a big red flag)

Floors and Walls

Have a good look at the condition of floors and walls. Note any:

• Scratches or dents
• Water stains or discolouration
• Loose carpet or floorboards
• Cracks in walls or ceilings

The Kitchen

The kitchen’s where things can get a bit tricky. There’s heaps to check, so take your time here.

Appliances

This is crucial. You need to actually test everything, not just eyeball it. That means:

• Opening and closing the oven, checking it heats up
• Running the dishwasher through a quick cycle, if possible
• Making sure the stove burners all ignite properly
• Checking the fridge is cold (and doesn’t smell dodgy)
• Testing the microwave, if one’s included

Cupboards and Drawers

Open every single cupboard and drawer. Have a look at:

• Do the doors hang straight and close without a fuss?
• Do the drawers glide open and shut, or do they stick?
• Any dodgy water stains or mould lurking about (give the under-the-sink area a proper check)
• Is there actually enough cupboard space for all your bits and pieces?

Benchtops and Sink

Give the taps a turn and check:

• Is the water pressure alright?
• Does the hot water actually get hot (or just sit there being warm)?
• Any leaks or annoying drips?
• Any cracks or chips in the sink or benchtop? Does the drain work like it should? (Fill the sink up and see how quickly it empties)

Rangehood and Ventilation

Switch on the rangehood and make sure it’s genuinely doing something, not just whirring away for show. Proper ventilation is really important for keeping the place fresh and stopping moisture from building up and causing dramas.

The Bedroom(s)

Your bedroom’s your sanctuary, so don’t rush through this bit.

Bed and Mattress

If there’s a bed provided, give it a thorough check:

• Is the mattress in good nick? Any stains or sagging?
• Does the bed frame feel sturdy?
• Are there any broken slats?
• Is bedding included, and if so, what condition is it in?

Don’t feel weird about sitting or lying on the bed – you need to know if you’ll actually be comfortable sleeping there.

Wardrobes and Storage

Open all wardrobe doors and check:

• Whether there are enough hanging rails and shelves
• If doors slide or open smoothly
• For any musty smells or signs of moisture
• That there’s actually enough space for your clothes

Climate Control

South Yarra can get pretty warm in summer and chilly in winter, so:

• Test the airconditioning or heating
• Check if there are ceiling fans and if they work
• Look for any signs of mould around windows or in corners

The Bathroom(s)

Bathrooms are prime spots for hidden problems, so be extra thorough here.

Plumbing

Turn on all taps and flush the toilet. Check for:

• Water pressure in the shower
• Whether hot water comes through quickly
• Any leaks or drips
• That the toilet flushes properly and refills

Ventilation

Make sure there’s an exhaust fan and that it actually works. Poor ventilation leads to mould, and nobody wants that.

General Condition

Look closely at:

• Grout and silicone for mould or deterioration
• Tiles for cracks or loose sections
• The shower screen for damage or leaks
• Whether there’s any water damage to the walls or ceilings

Storage and Fixtures

Check that towel rails are secure, there’s a working toilet roll holder, and you’ve got enough shelf space for your bathroom gear.

The Often-Forgotten Extras

Balcony or Outdoor Space

If your apartment comes with a balcony (and many apartments for rent in South Yarra do), don’t neglect it:

• Check the flooring condition
• Make sure any outdoor furniture is in good shape
• Look at drainage – puddles after rain are a pain
• Test that doors and screens work properly

Laundry Facilities

Whether it’s an in-apartment laundry or a shared facility:

• Test the washing machine if it’s in your apartment
• Check the dryer works (if provided)
• Look for any leaks around the plumbing
• Make sure there’s adequate ventilation

Storage Areas

If you’ve got a storage cage or additional cupboards:

• Check the lock works
• Look for any signs of moisture or pest problems
• Make sure it’s actually as big as advertised

The Building Common Areas

Don’t just focus on the apartment itself. The building matters too, especially when dealing with property management companies that maintain these areas.

Entry and Hallways

Give these a once-over:

• Does the building feel secure?
• Are the common areas clean and looked after?
• What’s the condition of the carpets and paintwork like?
• Is there decent lighting in the hallways and stairwells?

Facilities

If the building’s got a gym, pool, or shared spaces:

• Check out what sort of nick they’re in
• See if you need a swipe card or fob to get in
• Ask about booking systems if that’s a thing

Parking

If a car spot comes with the place:

• Track it down and make sure your car will actually fit
• Check out how easy it is to get in and out, and whether it feels secure
• Ask if there’s any visitor parking available

The Documentation Side of Things

Right, so you’ve done the walk-through and had a good look around. Now for the paperwork side – just as important, honestly.

Condition Report

This is absolutely crucial. When you move in, you’ll get a condition report to fill out. During your inspection:

• Snap plenty of photos and videos.
• Write down every mark, scratch, or dodgy bit that you find.
• Don’t worry about being too fussy – get it all down. 

The more complete you are now, the easier it will be to get your bond back later.

Inventory List

For furnished places, there should be a list of what’s included. Double-check:

• Everything on the list is actually there
• The descriptions match what you’re seeing
• Any appliances they’ve listed are actually working

Building Rules

Ask about:

• Their policy on pets
• Noise restrictions (especially if you like parties or play music)
• Whether you can have mates crash over
• Any rules about putting hooks or pictures up on the walls

Questions to Ask During the Inspection

Don’t be shy – speak up and ask whatever you need to know. Here are some good ones:

• When was the apartment last cleaned professionally?
• Who’s responsible for replacing light bulbs and small items?
• What’s the process for reporting maintenance issues?
• Are there any planned building works or renovations?
• What’s included in the rent (internet, water, gas)?
• How often can the landlord inspect the property?
• What’s the typical response time for repairs?

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Some things should definitely make you pause and think:

Mould or Dampness

A tiny bit of surface mould in a bathroom corner might not be the end of the world, but if you’re seeing mould everywhere or there’s a musty smell that won’t quit – that’s a hard no. It’s not only unpleasant, but it can genuinely make you sick and typically points to more serious problems like dodgy airflow or water leaks that haven’t been dealt with.

Poor Maintenance

If the landlord hasn’t even bothered fixing the obvious stuff before showing you through, what are the odds they’ll actually get back to you when something breaks after you’ve moved in? Not great, mate.

Excessive Wear and Tear

Furniture that’s completely knackered or appliances that look like they’re on their last legs could mean lots of hassles down the track.

Strange Smells

Cigarette smoke, pet odours, or mysterious smells that nobody can explain might be impossible to get rid of – and could affect your bond when you leave.

Pest Evidence

Look for droppings, dead insects, or any signs of rodents. South Yarra’s pretty urban, but pest problems can happen anywhere.

Making Your Decision

After your inspection, take some time to process everything. Look over your photos and notes, and think about:

Does the place feel right?

Are any issues deal-breakers, or could they be easily fixed?

Is the rent fair given the condition and inclusions?

Can you imagine yourself living there comfortably?

If you’ve clocked any issues, don’t be shy about having a yarn with the landlord. They might be happy to swap out that dodgy couch or get the aircon sorted before you rock up with your stuff.

Final Thoughts

Look, inspecting a furnished apartment in South Yarra properly might eat up a bit of your arvo, but trust us – it’s absolutely worth it. You’re not just sussing out four walls and a roof; you’re checking out your potential home, complete with all the furniture and appliances you’ll be living with day in, day out.

At Besser & Co, we’ve seen heaps of tenants who’ve kicked themselves for not being more thorough during their first look-through. Take your time, be systematic about it, and don’t let the excitement of finding a bonzer place mess with your head. Your perfect South Yarra pad is out there waiting – you just need to make sure it’s as good as it looks at first glance.

Remember, a bit of homework now saves you a massive headache down the track. You want to be out there enjoying everything South Yarra’s got going for it – the lifestyle, the location, the buzzing community – without stressing about whether your dishwasher’s about to give up the ghost or if that dodgy stain on the carpet is going to nick your bond money.

Happy apartment hunting, and here’s to finding your perfect South Yarra digs! If you need a hand navigating the rental market or you’ve got questions about furnished apartments, the crew at Besser & Co. is always here to help. We know Melbourne property like the back of our hand, and we’re genuinely passionate about helping people find their ideal spot to call home. 

Now get out there and find that great apartment you’ve been dreaming about!

FAQs

What are the things to check during the inspection of the furnished apartment in South Yarra?

Check that all the furniture and appliances actually work: test everything from the oven to the washing machine. Have a good look for damage, stains, and wear and tear; and don’t forget to suss out storage space, water pressure, and whether the place feels secure. Document everything with photos so you’re covered later.

How do I know if a furnished apartment is worth the rent?

Compare what you’re getting with similar places in the area – are the furnishings decent quality or just cheap stuff that’ll fall apart? Factor in the location, building facilities, and condition of everything included. If the furniture’s looking tired or the appliances seem a bit sus, you might be better off going for an unfurnished place and kitting it out yourself.

What are usually included in a furnished South Yarra apartment?

Most furnished places include the essentials: a bed, couch, dining table and chairs, and necessary appliances including a fridge, washing machine, microwave, and TV. You usually get a few kitchen bits, like pots, pans, and cutlery, etc. Fancier places may even add in decent linen, proper kitchenware, and even artwork on the walls.

How can I check if the furniture and appliances are in good condition?

Actually use everything during your inspection – sit on the couch, open all the drawers, run the dishwasher through a cycle. Check for loose legs, broken handles, stains, or other odours. Check whether the appliance is on, if it heats correctly, or if there are strange noises. Check the area under sinks for signs of water damage or mould.

What should I ask the landlord before signing the lease?

Ask who’s responsible for repairs if something breaks, whether you can replace dodgy furniture, and what happens if an appliance breaks down. Find out about building rules, parking arrangements, and whether utilities are included. Also check how responsive they are to maintenance requests – their answer will tell you heaps about what they’re like as a landlord.

Should I take photos during an apartment inspection?

Absolutely! In fact, you must take photos of everything! Snap pics of any existing damage, stains, scratches, or dodgy bits, plus the overall condition of furniture and appliances. These photos are your insurance policy when it comes to getting your bond back. Don’t be shy about it either – document the lot, because memories fade but photos don’t.