Student rental scams in Coventry and Warwickshire

Fraudster ‘landlords’ are targeting students looking for university accommodation, both Warwickshire Trading Standards and Coventry Trading Standards warned.

Students, tempted by cheaper rents, are often asked for large deposits – sometimes full payment upfront –  to secure properties before viewing them or to prove that students have sufficient funds.

In some cases, students are persuaded to pay deposits or rents for properties that turn out not to exist.

Some fraudsters gain access to properties and show prospective tenants around, giving the impression that the properties are vacant and under their control.

In some cases, fraudsters have been known to rent out properties that have already been rented out, or have been rented to multiple victims at the same time.

However, in many cases, the ‘landlords’ disappear after payment.

Janet Faulkner, head of Warwickshire Trading Standards Service, commented: “Students can ill afford to lose out in scams like these. However, by following our tips they can better protect themselves against fraudsters.”

Debbie Morgan, Coventry Trading Standards consumer protection officer, said: “Becoming a victim of a student rental scam can be a costly and upsetting experience…

“If you have been a victim of a rental scam or suspect that somebody is undertaking a rental offence, you should report the matter to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 084 5404 0506”

Both Coventry and Warwickshire Trading Standards have offered students tips on how to avoid being caught in rental scams:

• Do not send money upfront. If possible pay any deposit by credit card at the letting agent’s office when formal contracts are signed.
• Beware of property adverts that do not give the property address or a UK landline number.
• Always visit the property you intend to rent.
• Ask for copies of tenancy agreements and any safety certificates.
• Do not proceed if asked to transfer money via money transfer agents such as Western Union, Money Gram or Ukash – use these only with people you know and trust.
• Is the owner on an approved accommodation list? Check with your Students Union or accommodation office.
• Look for accreditation membership such as National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS)
• Protect your deposit. When a deposit is taken other than a “holding deposit” the money must be paid into a Government approved deposit scheme: https://www.gov.uk/private-renting