31/08/2026
⚠️ RENTING FROM A PRIVATE LANDLORD? PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE SENDING ANY MONEY.
Recently, we’ve spoken to several people who have either lost money to rental scams or found themselves in very suspicious situations while trying to rent a property.
We’ve also been asked:
“How can I check if a private landlord and the property are genuine?”
So we’ve put together this simple guide. 👇
Most private landlords are completely genuine, but unfortunately, rental scams do happen — particularly through Facebook, Marketplace and private online adverts.
Before paying a holding deposit, tenancy deposit or first month’s rent, take a few minutes to check:
🏠 1. View the property
Whenever possible, view it in person. Photos and videos can easily be copied from genuine property listings.
👤 2. Check who you’re dealing with
Ask for the full details of the person renting the property. If they’re acting on behalf of the landlord, ask them to confirm their authority to do so.
🔎 3. Check the property ownership
In England and Wales, ownership information can be checked through HM Land Registry. A different name doesn’t automatically mean it’s a scam, but there should be a clear and verifiable explanation.
🚩 4. Be careful with pressure tactics
“Pay today or you’ll lose it.”
“I have five other people interested.”
“Send the deposit now and I’ll remove the advert.”
Don’t let pressure stop you from carrying out basic checks.
📄 5. Read the agreement carefully
Check the property address, landlord’s details, rent, deposit, start date and exactly who you are paying.
💳 6. Check the payment details
If the name on the bank account is different from the landlord or the person named on the agreement, ask why before transferring any money.
🔐 7. Ask about deposit protection
Where tenancy deposit protection rules apply,
your deposit should be protected in
a government-approved scheme and you should receive the required information.
🌐 8. Research the property online
Search the address and photos. Check property portals and see whether the same property appears elsewhere with different contact details, a different price or even listed for sale.
🚨 COMMON RED FLAGS:
❌ The “landlord is abroad” and cannot show you the property
❌ Money is requested before you’ve viewed it
❌ Pressure to make an immediate payment
❌ Different names on the advert, agreement and bank account with no clear explanation
❌ Rent is suspiciously cheap compared with similar properties
❌ Basic questions are avoided
❌ No evidence that the person has the right to rent out the property
🛑 If something doesn’t feel right, don’t send any money until you’ve verified everything.
A few minutes of checking could save you hundreds or even thousands of pounds.
Please SHARE this post — someone you know may currently be looking for a property and this could help them avoid a very expensive mistake.
