Avoiding Rental Scams

Buy, Sell, Trust and Safety Safety Tips
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Rental Scams: How to Spot Fake Landlords and Avoid Housing Fraud

Rental scams are fraudulent listings designed to trick renters into sending money or personal information for properties that are not available, not owned by the advertiser, or do not exist.

These scams often involve convincing stories, fake landlords, and pressure to send deposits before viewing a property.

Understanding how these scams work can help you avoid financial loss and identity theft.

How Rental Scams Typically Work

Fraudsters often pose as landlords or property managers and try to create urgency or emotional trust. A common tactic is claiming to be located outside the country or unable to show the property in person.

They may then ask for deposits or personal information before allowing a viewing.

A typical scam message may look like this:

“Dear Tenant to be, I work overseas and cannot show the property in person. Once you send the first month’s rent, I will courier the keys and documents to you…”

This is a classic rental scam. The goal is to collect money before you have seen or verified the property.

Warning Signs of a Rental Scam

Be cautious if you notice any of the following:

Landlord is Overseas or Unavailable

  • Claims to be working or living abroad

  • Cannot meet in person under any circumstances

  • Offers excuses such as travel, relocation, or emergencies

No In-Person Viewing Allowed

  • Refusal to show the property inside

  • Offers to send keys after payment

  • Only provides exterior photos or limited access

Suspicious Pricing or Offers

  • Rent significantly below similar listings in the area

  • Includes excessive perks (utilities, furniture, “special deal” pricing)

Pressure to Send Money Quickly

  • Requests for deposits before viewing

  • Urgency or “first come, first served” pressure tactics

  • Insistence on wire transfers, crypto, or untraceable payments

Suspicious Listing Content

  • Copied or stock photos

  • Overly detailed or inconsistent descriptions

  • Mixed personal stories unrelated to the property

How to Verify a Rental Listing

Before sending money or personal information:

View the Property in Person

Always inspect the property physically before signing or paying anything.

Confirm the Property Exists

  • Use Google Maps or Street View

  • Check that the property matches listing photos

  • Search the address online for duplicate listings

Verify the Landlord or Agent

  • Ask for full name and contact information

  • Request a live video tour (not pre-recorded)

  • Confirm identity using a phone or video call

  • Check email domains for legitimacy (avoid generic free emails when possible)

Request Documentation (When Appropriate)

A legitimate landlord or property manager should be able to provide supporting documentation such as:

  • Proof of ownership

  • Property tax documents

  • Utility bills matching their name

Protect Your Personal Information

Never share sensitive information before verifying the listing, including:

  • Social Insurance Number (SIN)

  • Banking details

  • Government-issued identification

  • Employment or income verification documents

Be cautious of online “application forms” requesting excessive personal data.

Safe Rental Practices

To reduce risk:

  • Always meet landlords or agents in person when possible

  • Visit the property before paying any deposit

  • Keep communication within trusted platforms when available

  • Use traceable payment methods where applicable

  • Walk away if you feel rushed or pressured

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

If a listing or message seems suspicious:

Our Commitment to User Safety

Kijiji is committed to helping users identify and avoid rental scams through education, awareness, and reporting tools. By recognizing common fraud patterns and verifying listings before sending payment, users can protect themselves and make safer housing decisions. Typically, fraudsters will attempt to organize a transaction that is not face-to-face. They often invent elaborate stories to gain your trust and convince you to send money or personal information before seeing the property.

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