If you are looking for a place to rent, whether it is a house or just a room, be cautious. The Tenancies Branch has received complaints relating to fake rental and shared accommodation listings on the internet. The scammers advertise properties that do not belong to them. They ask for money to be paid up front before allowing the prospective renter to inspect the property. Once the payment is made, the fraudulent owner/landlord is no longer able to be contacted.
Advice to prospective renters:
- Do not pay any money unless you have inspected the rental property.
- Do not pay any money unless you are satisfied that the agreement is genuine.
- Make sure you get a receipt for any money paid.
- Be wary of sending money overseas, particularly to a post box number.
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