Beware of Rental Scams!
Category Principal's Message
How Does a Rental Scam Work?
Fraudsters will place fake adverts for a property available to rent, complete with photos, fake contracts, a false name and contact details.
These individuals will do their best to not show you the property in person. They will ask for a deposit and perhaps the first month's rent to be deposited into their account.
These con artists will promise that on receipt of the deposit they will arrange delivery of the keys to the property, however, once the monies have been paid to them, they will make a swift exit and become unreachable.
How to avoid a scam?
If it sounds "too good to be true", it usually is! Trust your gut.
Investigate and find as much information as possible on the property, if you can, speak to current tenants or neighbours to find out about the property owner.
Ask for the utilities account of the property - proof of the identity of the registered owner.
Have an attorney look over your lease agreement to verify its legitimacy.
If you do in fact view the property but feel there is something odd going on, take someone you trust with you for safety and as a witness.
When meeting potential landlords or an agent take down as much information about them as possible, including photos of the property with the person taking you for the viewing, and vehicle registration.
If you are with an agent: Make sure they work for a reputable agency and verify their credentials with this agency.
If you are with a landlord: Ensure that you have their full name and surnames with ID number that can be confirmed through your local authority.
Author: Prime Property Marketing
