Are you a foreigner looking to rent a flat in Madrid? Finding a home in the Spanish capital can feel like a race: viewings happen quickly, demand is high, and an apparently perfect apartment can hide details that only become obvious after you move in. In this video, I share the things I would personally check when viewing a flat in Madrid. From misleadingly bright photos and noisy bedrooms to poor insulation and apartments that feel like ovens in summer, these practical checks can help you look beyond first impressions and make a more informed decision.
In this video:
00:00 – The common dream vs. Madrid rental reality
02:13 – #1 Is the flat really as bright as it looked online?
03:21 – #2 Does it have air conditioning and where?
04:33 – #3 What kind of heating does it have?
05:56 – #4 How noisy is it really?
07:37 – #5 Check the water pressure and hot water
08:38 – #6 Look carefully for damp, mold and freshly covered damage
10:06 – #7 Do the appliances actually work?
11:33 – #8 Test your phone and ask about internet
12:26 – #9 Inspect the building, not only the apartment
13:51 – #10 Walk the route you will actually use
15:10 – Final advice
Key takeaways:
How to prepare for fast apartment viewings
What to inspect before committing to a property
Useful questions to ask landlords and agents
How to spot potential problems that photographs may not reveal
This list reflects my personal perspective and focuses specifically on the physical condition of the flat, the building and its immediate surroundings. Before paying anything or signing a contract, you should also carefully check the legal conditions, verify the landlord or real-estate agency, and seek professional advice if anything is unclear. Related video about Madrid’s monthly costs of living: https://youtu.be/qEITuIIZd7A
What would you add to this checklist? If you have rented a flat in Madrid or elsewhere in Spain, share your experience in the comments. What do you wish you had checked before moving in? Your advice could help someone else avoid the same mistake and I read and respond to all comments!
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