Gardaí have advised people, particularly students, to be cautious about rental scams.
According to Gardaí, if the rent sounds too good to be true, it probably is and have issued some advice to those in the market for a new place at present.
Ensure you have verified the property’s existence and address on an online map, and watch out for incorrect contact details being given to you.
The Gardaí recommend meeting a prospective landlord in person at the place you plan to rent, and if an agent is involved, check they are working for a reputable agency and ask for ID, such as a driver’s license or business card.
If there is anything you are not happy with when you go inside the property, flag it with the landlord and photograph it before paying a deposit.
Do not pay the people leaving the property – pay the landlord – and use cheques or bank drafts to do so. Keep all receipts and correspondence.
The rent index by the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) at prtb.ie shows benchmark information for students and gives a guide to the rents being charged close to third level colleges.
The Gardaí emphasise that if you are suspicious in any way to contact them.
