Scam & Fraud Guidance

Most listings on this portal are legitimate, but scams exist. Use this checklist to protect yourself before you apply, send money, or sign anything.

Report a suspicious listing Read the Disclaimer

Quick verification checklist

Search the property address on a map and street view. Does the exterior match the photos?
Confirm ownership/management (municipal property lookup or ask for a utility bill or business license with the same name).
Tour in person or via live video. Ask the host to show today’s date on paper and pan around rooms and windows.
Get a written lease. Read deposits, refunds, and move-in dates carefully.
Pay only through traceable methods (no gift cards, crypto, or wire to strangers).

Top red flags

  • Pressure to pay before viewing or before a signed lease.
  • Price far below similar rentals in the same area.
  • Host “travelling abroad,” can’t meet, wants a deposit first.
  • Requests for gift cards, crypto, or “escrow” sites you’ve never heard of.
  • Photos watermarked from other sites or that don’t match the address.

Safer payments

  • Prefer e-transfer with name and memo, or a payment portal tied to the lease.
  • Avoid cash and irreversible methods. Keep receipts/screenshots.
  • Never send funds to “hold” a place you haven’t verified.

Common scam patterns

  • Sublet switch: You meet one person; the lease is in another name.
  • Fake agent: Says they “manage many units” and asks fees upfront.
  • Photo clone: Images copied from another city or old listing.

If you sent money

  • Contact your bank/card immediately and explain you suspect fraud.
  • Change passwords if you shared documents via email/cloud.
  • Save all messages, receipts, and screenshots for a report.

Templates & tips

Message template: request a live video tour

Hi, I’m interested in the rental at [address]. Could we do a live video tour? Please show today’s date on paper, the front door from outside, each room, windows, and the utility meters if possible. Thanks!

What to look for on a tour
  • Street number and exterior match the listing.
  • Ceilings, corners, under sinks: signs of leaks or mold.
  • Exit routes, smoke/CO detectors present and functional.
  • Rooms and appliances match the photos.
Lease sanity check
  • Full names, address, start/end dates, rent, deposit, utilities.
  • Move-in inspection and repair timelines in writing.
  • How to give notice; sublet/assignment rules; guest policy.

For legal questions, consult a licensed attorney or your local tenant resource office.

Report a concern

If a listing seems inaccurate or suspicious, send us the link, screenshots, and any messages you received.

Report a listing Find your campus portal

Policy reminder

Listings are provided for convenience and are not endorsed by the university or site operator. You are responsible for your housing decisions.

Read the full Disclaimer.