Rental fraud is a growing problem, particularly for young people and students looking for their first home. Scammers post fake listings and pose as landlords to trick renters into paying deposits or rent for properties that don’t exist or are already occupied. Many victims lose hundreds, even thousands, of pounds. With high rental demand, staying vigilant is crucial.

Key Signs of Rental Scams

Before paying anything, watch for these warning signs:

• Verify the landlord or agent – Ensure they’re registered with a professional body. If they refuse to provide details, it’s a red flag.
• Visit the property – Always view it in person or request a live video tour to confirm legitimacy.
• Avoid pressure tactics – Scammers rush people into paying, claiming high demand. Take your time.
• Check for duplicate listings – If the same property appears at different prices or contacts, it could be a scam.
• Use secure payment methods – Never send money via bank transfer or cryptocurrency. Deposits should go through a government-backed scheme.
• Get a written agreement – Always have a tenancy agreement before making any payment.
  

If something seems off, verify all details before proceeding.

Students: Don’t Rush Your Rental Decision

Scammers exploit students under pressure to secure housing before term starts. The fear of not having accommodation can lead to hasty decisions and potential scams.

Start your search early, double-check all details, and remember: if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. If unsure, seek help from your university’s accommodation office or students’ union.

How Renters Can Be Better Protected

At Citizens Advice, we believe the following measures would help prevent rental fraud:

• Stronger verification for listings – Letting agents and landlords should undergo stricter checks.
• Better awareness campaigns – More education is needed on spotting and avoiding scams.
• Safer deposit payments – Deposits should only go through secure, regulated schemes.
• Harsher penalties for scammers – Authorities must crack down on rental fraud.
• Easier reporting processes – Victims need a clear path to report scams and recover money.
  

Renters deserve safe, secure housing, and these changes would improve protection.