The St. Albert RCMP is urging potential renters to exercise caution when searching for rental properties. Rental scams are becoming increasingly common, and these fraudulent schemes can leave victims out of pocket and without a place to live.
Common Rental Scam Scenarios
The Fake Landlord with Access: In this scenario, a fraudster gains unauthorized access to a property and pretends to be the landlord or property manager. They show the property to the victim, request an immediate down payment to secure the rental, and promise that the victim can move in at a later date. When the move-in day arrives, the victim discovers that the property was never actually available for rent, and there may be multiple victims who have also been scammed.
The Out-of-Country Landlord: In another common scenario, a fraudster poses as a landlord who is out of the country. They ask for a deposit to secure the rental, often requesting that the payment be made through a money transfer. Once the payment is made, the victim realizes that there is no rental property, and the fraudster disappears with the money.
Tips to Protect Yourself from Rental Scams
To avoid falling victim to rental scams, it’s essential to be vigilant and apply common sense. Here are some precautionary steps you can take:
Draft and Sign a Proper Tenancy Agreement: Ensure that a tenancy agreement is created and signed by both parties. This document should include the names and addresses of the landlord.
Request Identification: Ask the landlord to show picture identification to confirm that they are the person named in the tenancy agreement. While it’s not mandatory for landlords to provide ID, be cautious if they refuse.
Verify Identity with Utility Bills: As a renter, consider asking to see previous utility bills for the property. This can help confirm the identity of the landlord and ensure they are the legitimate owner or manager of the property.
Check Comparable Rental Rates: Research rental rates in the area to ensure that the price being offered isn’t unusually low. Fraudsters often lure victims with low prices to attract multiple victims quickly.
Avoid Wiring Money: Never wire money through services like Western Union to pay a security deposit, application fee, first month’s rent, or vacation rental fee. Wiring money is a red flag, as it’s nearly impossible to recover funds sent this way.
Additional Resources
For general information on entering into or ending a tenancy, you can visit the Edmonton Landlord and Tenant Advisory Board’s website at www.edmonton.ca/ltab.
If you have any information about rental scams or believe you’ve been a victim, please contact the St. Albert RCMP at 780-458-7700 or your local police department. If you prefer to remain anonymous, you can reach out to Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.tipsubmit.com, or via SMS (check your local Crime Stoppers website for instructions).
Stay safe and informed to protect yourself from rental scams.
