How do I check if the person renting out the flat is really the owner?
Ask the person for an ID and a document that shows ownership – the sale deed, a recent property tax receipt or an electricity bill in their name – and check that the names match. Then ask the society office, security guard or a neighbour who the owner is.
A genuine owner can show these without difficulty and will usually meet you or send a family member. Someone who only has photos, is always out of town and refuses every document is either a scammer or a tenant subletting without permission.
How to check
- Ask for the sale deed or a property tax receipt and compare the name with the person's ID.
- Ask for a recent electricity or maintenance bill for the flat.
- Talk to the society office or the security guard: they know who owns and who lives there.
- If a broker is involved, ask who the owner is and insist on meeting them before paying.
- Pay the deposit only against a written rent agreement signed by the owner.
Frequently asked questions
- The owner is abroad and a relative will sign. Is that okay?
- It can be, if the relative has a power of attorney and the documents are in order. Check them just as carefully.
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