"Younger renters are often seen as easy targets, given that this may be their first time navigating this often-complicated process"
- Ian Wilson - Tiger.co.uk
Data shows that people aged between 18 and 29 accounted for 48% of all reported rental fraud cases in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland last year.
Rising rental costs are adding to the risk, with private rental prices paid by tenants in the UK increasing by 6.2% in the 12 months to January 2024. The combination of high demand and limited supply is creating opportunities for fraudsters to present false deals to unsuspecting tenants.
Five red flags to watch out for when renting
Fake listings – Scammers may advertise attractive properties using stolen images, sometimes for homes that do not exist or are no longer available. Always verify a listing’s legitimacy before committing.
Illegal charges – The Tenant Fees Act 2019 prohibits charging tenants for reference checks, credit checks, or guarantor references. Requests for such fees could indicate illegal practices or scams.
Excess cleaning charges – End-of-tenancy cleaning costs should be reasonable, pre-agreed, and reflect any damage beyond normal wear and tear. Take photos and videos at the start of the tenancy to document the property’s condition.
No property viewing – Fraudsters may avoid in-person or virtual viewings to hide the fact that the property is not legitimate. Always view a property yourself or through a trusted representative before paying or signing.
Subletting or unauthorised lettings – Some scams involve properties being let without the owner’s consent. Confirm that the advertiser is the legal landlord or a licensed agent, and request identification or official documentation.
"Rental scams are becoming more sophisticated, taking advantage of the growing demand for rental properties and the urgency of renters trying to secure a property," said Ian Wilson, rental insurance expert and managing director at Tiger.co.uk. "Younger renters are often seen as easy targets, given that this may be their first time navigating this often-complicated process,"
"It’s crucial that renters, especially those new to the property market, take their time, ask the right questions, and never feel pressured into sending money or personal details."
"Tiger’s research on renting red flags should help renters prepare and be on alert for any suspicious activity. Renters or contents insurance can also help – by adding tenant's liability to the policy, it covers accidental damage to the landlord’s property, adding an extra layer of protection that may reduce the risk of disputes over unjustified charges."
