A Tenants Guide to Avoiding Rental Fraud

 

 

Protect Yourself When Renting a Property

 

At Selman’s Lettings Ltd, we understand that finding the right rental home can be stressful. Unfortunately, rental scams are on the rise, and tenants need to stay vigilant. This guide will help you recognise potential fraud and ensure you rent safely and securely.

1. Common Rental Scams

 

Fake Landlords or Letting Agents

 

Some scammers pose as landlords or agents, advertising properties they don’t own. They may ask for upfront payments before you’ve viewed the property or signed a contract.

 

Phantom Properties

 

Fraudsters list properties that don’t exist or are already rented. They lure tenants with low prices and pressure them to pay deposits quickly.

 

‘Too Good to Be True’ Listings

 

If the rent is significantly lower than similar properties in the area, be cautious. Scammers use attractive pricing to trick tenants into paying upfront.

 

Unregistered Deposits

 

By law, landlords in England must protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme. If your landlord refuses to do this, it’s a red flag.

2. How to Avoid Rental Scams

 

✅ Always View the Property in Person

 

Never agree to rent a property without viewing it. If you’re unable to visit, ask a trusted person to check it for you.

 

✅ Verify the Landlord or Letting Agent

•Ask for the agent’s or landlord’s identification and proof of ownership.

•Check if the letting agent is registered with a professional body such as The Property Ombudsman 

•Search for the agency online and read reviews.

 

✅ Check the Property on the Land Registry

 

For a small fee, you can verify property ownership via the UK Land Registry. This helps confirm that the person renting the property has the right to do so.

 

✅ Never Pay Cash or Use Untraceable Transfers

•Avoid paying deposits via cash, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers like Western Union.

•Always make payments through bank transfers to a registered UK bank account.

 

✅ Confirm Deposit Protection

 

Landlords must place your deposit in a government-backed scheme (TDS, DPS, or MyDeposits). Ask for confirmation before making any payments.

 

✅ Get Everything in Writing

•Ensure you receive a tenancy agreement before handing over money.

•Read the contract carefully and ask about any unclear terms.

•Request a written receipt for any payment you make.

 

✅ Be Wary of High-Pressure Tactics

 

Scammers may rush you into making a decision. A genuine landlord or agent will allow you time to review everything properly.

3. What to Do If You Suspect Fraud

 

Report the Scam

 

If you believe you’ve encountered rental fraud, report it to:

•Action Fraud (UK’s national reporting centre) – www.actionfraud.police.uk

•Citizens Advice – www.citizensadvice.org.uk

•Your Local Council’s Trading Standards Office

 

Contact Your Bank

 

If you’ve already made a payment, contact your bank immediately to see if the transaction can be reversed.

 

Warn Others and share your experience as this can help prevent others from falling victim to rental fraud.