Stay smart: Avoid scams in your student accommodation search

August 14, 2024

The college term is fast approaching and the scramble for student accommodation is once more underway. We now do more of our business online than ever before. This, combined with a shortage of rental accommodation has left students under severe pressure to find a place to live, creating the perfect storm for a surge in rental scams.

One third of all accommodation fraud reports occur during August and September each year according to An Garda Síochána, with the annual spike occurring during the return-to-college timeframe.

Whether you’re starting out in college or a returning student, our top tips will help you avoid rental scams

Warning signs to watch out for

Rental scams typically aim to trick you out of your money by pretending to offer a property or room for rent. Here are some red flags to be aware of:

• Landlord is away: If the landlord claims to be out of town or living abroad and cannot show the property in person, be cautious.
• Upfront payments: Scammers often request a deposit and possibly the first month’s rent upfront without showing you a lease.
• Fake contracts and keys: Scammers may send you false contracts or fake keys to make the scam appear legitimate.
• Unsolicited offers: Be wary of unsolicited emails or text messages offering you a place, especially if a landlord doesn’t do background checks or ask questions.

How to protect yourself

Scammers often use similar names and cover stories across multiple attempts. They typically contact you through email, text, WhatsApp, or other social platforms. Here’s how you can guard against these rental scams:

Do:

• Research rent prices: Be cautious if the price seems too cheap for the area.
• Verify property locations: Use online maps to ensure the advertised address exists.
• Visit in person: Always view the property yourself before making any payments.
• Maintain proper records: Keep detailed contact information for the landlord or agent and save all communication records.
• Get a written lease: Ensure you have a written lease or rent book explaining the deposit, rent, and who pays the bills before handing over any money.
• Obtain written receipts: Always get a proper receipt in writing for any payments you make.

Don’t:

• Agree without viewing: Never agree to rent a property you haven’t seen in person.
• Pay if unsatisfied: Don’t hand over money if you are unhappy with the accommodation’s condition.
• Accept keys prematurely: Test all locks yourself before accepting keys as genuine.
• Use cash for deposits: Paying by card or bank transfer can help you recover money if something goes wrong.
• Skip relevant checks: Complete all relevant checks before making any payment.
• Pay without a lease: Don’t make any payments until you have received the written lease and keys that fit.

What to do if you get scammed

If you fall victim to a scam, contact your bank or credit card company immediately to cancel your cards and secure your account. You may also be able to reverse the transaction through a chargeback from your card provider.

Additionally, report the incident to your local Garda station. Doing so may help stop the scammer and save others from becoming victims.

Stay safe and vigilant as you search for your perfect student accommodation!

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