£1,800
Average loss in rental scams
75%
Of victims are aged 18–39
5,000+
Rental fraud cases reported per year
6 Common UK Rental Scam Types
Learn the most common rental scam tactics before you start searching. Knowing what to look for can help you spot warning signs earlier.
Ghost Listing Scam
Attractive listings with below-market prices that require an upfront deposit before a viewing. The property may not exist or may already be let.
Landlord Impersonation
Scammers pose as genuine landlords on Facebook or WeChat, collect deposits and disappear. The real owner has no knowledge of the rental.
Subletting Scam
Fake sublet arrangements with informal contracts and bank transfers. These are often unauthorised and may leave tenants with little or no legal protection.
Overseas Payment Trap
Requests for PayPal, international bank transfers or cryptocurrency payments, often claiming the landlord is overseas. Once the money is sent, it’s usually very difficult to recover.
AI-Generated Listings
AI-generated property photos and fake reviews used to create convincing listings. They’re becoming increasingly difficult to spot.
Fake Agency Scam
Fake letting agencies charge high admin or referencing fees before disappearing, or provide invalid tenancy agreements.