Beware of scams

The vast majority of visitors to our site are genuinely seeking accommodation. There are however a small cohort who set out to defraud our customers. The good news is that scammers are quite easy to spot. They typically pose as foreigners who are about to take up residence in the UK. They offer little information about themselves, particularly when pressed to do so. They will most likely offer to send you a cashier's cheque or money order to cover the security deposit and rent. The amount will be for more than is actually needed and they will ask you to refund the difference (via their 'agent'). You should not pursue enquiries of this nature. If you were to receive a cheque or money order it would look genuine but would almost certainly be a forgery. Under no circumstances should you deposit it in your bank account. Your bank will hold you responsible!

Our tips

Don't agree to rent your room or property until you have met the potential tenant.

Only meet people with whom you have had an open dialogue (email and/or phone) where they have revealed their contact details and any information you have asked for. Don't respond to anyone who is pushy and is pressuring you into sending money.

Don't give out your personal details before you are ready.

Use a legal tenancy agreement and make sure it is completed and signed in advance of the letting date.

When receiving payment, ask for a personal or bank cheque. Don't give money to anyone !

Don't allow access to the property (or give keys) until the first payment has been received (and cleared through your bank account).

Report suspicious people to us.