Prospective renters were advised to visit properties in person before paying for a rental unit. (Lara Fominoff/650 CKOM)

By CKOM News

RENTER BEWARE

Rental scams with fake listings raise concerns in Saskatchewan

Oct 10, 2023 | 1:53 PM

A rental scam going around Saskatchewan has prompted a warning from the province’s Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority.

Jan Seibel, executive director of the FCAA’s insurance and real estate division, said some unsavoury “landlords” – who might not own any properties at all – are trying to trick renters with fake photos of properties.

“One type of online scam that we are seeing is where fake landlords lure unwary would-be renters with pictures of properties they don’t actually own,” Seibel said in a statement.

According to the province, these fraudsters who are posing as landlords target prospective tenants with fake listings, often using photos downloaded from legitimate real estate sites.

“The fraudster asks the tenants to sign a fake lease agreement and send a payment, ostensibly to cover rent for the first month and provide a security deposit,” the FCAA explained.

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“Once the payment is received the fraudulent landlord disappears and either the victim does not receive access to the property or, in some extreme cases, a locksmith is contacted who grants access to the property causing issues for both the victim of the fraudulent rental agreement and the actual property owners.”

Those looking to find a place to rent were advised to exercise caution and vet both the landlord and the properties before any money changes hands.

This, the FCAA said, can include meeting the landlord in person, inspecting the property in person, and being wary if a prospective landlord requests money right away.

“Security deposits and rental payments should never be paid until you have seen the rental property,” the province advised.

Vetting a rental property can also include ensuring the price is in keeping with the going rate for the area, the FCAA said. If a deal seems to good to be true, it probably is.

The FCAA said legitimate landlords will be forthcoming with details of the property and the rental process, while prospective tenants should be asking questions and ensuring they get clear information in response.

“It’s important to watch for red flags and make sure you are dealing with a legitimate person,” Seibel said.

The Moose Jaw Police Service issued a statement Tuesday warning of similar scams appearing on social media.

“It has been reported to Police that individuals are making fake Facebook posts regarding
available rental units and/or items for sale,” the police service said.

“The scammer will ask for a deposit in advance via an e-transfer for you to secure the item or rental unit.”

Police advised the public to never rush into a decision and not be afraid to ask questions.