I think quite a few of those also have multi party proportional representation which tend to avoid parliamentary majorities, so checks and balances are their in a different (I would argue better) form.
That's a fair point, but I don't think the house of lords really represents a second chamber? Usually that second chamber consists of representatives of federate states, such as the senate or the Bundesrat.
How do the lords get elected?
As far as I'm aware the Lords aren't elected, so there's an argument there they should have less power???
Membership is granted by appointment or by heredity or official function