How to avoid scammer landlords?

Rental scams are sadly not uncommon – especially in such competitive metropolitan areas like London. Here are essential tips to help you avoid losing money on the most common rental scams:

1. Research the market: Familiarise yourself with the average rental prices in your desired area. Extremely low prices are usually a sign that the listing isn’t genuine.
   
2. Use trusted websites: Use reputable property search websites and avoid listings that look suspicious or lack detailed information. Beware of community/group listings – they are the hardest to check or report. Make sure you check everything you can before committing to a property you saw listed on Facebook. 
   
3. See the property in person: Never rent a property without viewing it first. Scammers often make excuses for not being able to show the flat. If you’re unable to view it yourself, ask someone you trust to do it on your behalf.
   
4. Be cautious with deposits and advance payments: Never pay a deposit or any rent before signing a rental agreement. Be wary of landlords or agents who pressure you to make quick payments, especially via cash, wire transfer, or untraceable methods. Mind that holding deposit is a different story: this amount is usually paid in advance before signing a contract to secure the property. OpenRent has a functionality to place a holding deposit via the platform, which protects your money from potential scams. However, not every landlord will accept your holding deposit via OpenRent. If the landlord is asking you to transfer it directly to them, this may not necessarily be a red flag – but do make sure you check everything else before proceeding with the transfer. 
   
5. Check property ownership: You can verify property ownership through the Land Registry for a small fee. This helps ensure the person you’re dealing with is the rightful owner or appointed agent.
   
6. Avoid sharing personal information prematurely: Be cautious about sharing personal or financial information (like your passport copy or bank statements) until you’re certain the listing is legitimate and you’re ready to proceed with a formal agreement.
   
7. Rental agreement and documentation: Always insist on a formal rental agreement and read it thoroughly before signing. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions. Ask for identification from the landlord or agent, and ensure the names match those on the agreement.
   
8. Check for Deposit Protection Scheme: Ensure your deposit is protected by a Deposit Protection Scheme. It’s a legal requirement for all landlords – they can’t just keep your deposit in their personal bank account. 
   
9. Listen to your instincts: Trust your instincts. If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is.