Scams

Stay Safe When Renting

Your safety is important to us. While we work to keep EU-Rentals a trusted platform, it's important to stay alert and take a few simple precautions when searching for your next home.

How EU-Rentals Works

EU-Rentals is a platform that connects property owners and tenants. We do not:

  • Handle payments or deposits
  • Act as an intermediary or escrow service
  • Guarantee any rental or listing
  • Offer buyer or tenant protection schemes
  • Verify every landlord or tenant

Be cautious of anyone claiming they work for EU-Rentals and asking you to transfer money or provide personal information. This is a scam.

Common Rental Scams to Watch Out For

Never Pay Before Viewing

Avoid sending a deposit or the first month's rent before you have viewed the property or verified that the landlord or agent is genuine.

Be especially careful if someone claims they are:

  • Abroad and unable to show the property
  • Asking you to "reserve" the property by paying first
  • Requesting payment before signing a rental agreement

Beware of Fake Listings

Scammers often copy photos and descriptions from legitimate listings and repost them at unrealistically low prices.

Warning signs include:

  • The rent is significantly cheaper than similar properties.
  • The landlord refuses to arrange a viewing.
  • The listing disappears after requesting payment.
  • The photos appear overly professional or are found on multiple websites.

Never Send Money Through Untraceable Methods

Do not send money using:

  • Western Union
  • MoneyGram
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Gift cards
  • Prepaid debit cards
  • Any other anonymous money transfer service

Legitimate landlords will usually accept secure bank transfers after a rental agreement has been signed.

Verify the Landlord

Before making any payment:

  • Speak with the landlord or agent by phone or video call.
  • View the property in person whenever possible.
  • If you cannot visit, ask someone you trust to do so on your behalf.
  • Request proof that the person renting the property is authorised to do so.

Protect Your Personal Information

Only share personal information when you are confident the listing is genuine.

Never send copies of your:

  • Passport
  • National ID card
  • Residence permit
  • Bank card
  • Banking passwords or security codes

Some identity verification may be required during the rental process, but only after you have confirmed you are dealing with a legitimate landlord or agency.

Be Careful with Phishing Emails

Scammers sometimes send emails pretending to come from rental platforms.

Always:

  • Check the sender's email address carefully.
  • Never click suspicious links.
  • Only access your EU-Rentals account through the official website.

Use Common Sense

If something feels rushed or suspicious, take your time.

Be cautious if someone:

  • Pressures you to pay immediately.
  • Refuses to answer questions.
  • Won't arrange a viewing.
  • Asks you to communicate only through private messaging apps.
  • Requests payment before you've signed a rental agreement.

Report Suspicious Listings

If you believe a listing or user is fraudulent, please report it immediately. Your reports help us investigate suspicious activity and keep the platform safe for everyone.

Remember

If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Take your time, verify who you're dealing with, and never send money until you're confident the property and landlord are genuine.