Why does the landlord want a deposit before I've viewed the flat?
Because the flat is probably not theirs to rent. A real landlord or agent shows the property first and takes a deposit when you sign the lease; a scammer needs the money before you discover that the photos belong to someone else's listing.
The excuses are always the same: they are out of town, there are ten other applicants, the deposit "secures your spot" and is "fully refundable". Once the EFT lands, the number goes dead.
What to do
- Refuse to pay anything before a viewing, in person or by someone you trust.
- Reverse image search the listing photos; copied photos mean a copied advert.
- Ask for the landlord's full name and check the owner on the title deed via the Deeds Office, or the agent with the PPRA.
- Search the number, the email and the bank account name with "scam".
- If you already paid, phone your bank immediately and open a case with SAPS.
Frequently asked questions
- They offered a video tour instead. Is that enough?
- No. A video can be taken from the real listing or by someone who viewed it. You need to stand in the flat, or someone you trust must.
Want to know if there are warning signs about the person you're chatting to? Veritaza checks the photos, the messages, the number, the email address, the name and the ID document, for R99.
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