What should I ask a landlord before paying a deposit?
Ask who the registered owner is, who will show you the property in person, which account the deposit goes into and in whose name, when you sign the lease and when you receive the keys. A real landlord answers all five easily; a scammer dodges the first two.
The point of the questions is not the answers alone but how they are given. Hesitation, irritation or a story that changes between messages tells you more than any document.
The questions
- "Are you the registered owner, or acting for them?" Then check the title deed via the Deeds Office or the agent with the PPRA.
- "When can I view the property in person?" No viewing, no deposit.
- "Which account does the deposit go into, and whose name is on it?" It must match the owner or the agency.
- "Will we sign the lease at the property?" Signing on site means they have access.
- "When do I get the keys?" At signing, not after a courier.
Frequently asked questions
- Should I also ask for the landlord's ID?
- You can, but a photo of an ID proves little. The title deed and a viewing prove more.
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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