Islanders Warned About Rental Scams

Saturday, 7 August 2021 07:00

Guernsey Police are asking people to be careful when paying deposits for properties as another scam has been reported.

It comes after an individual was scammed out of a cash for a home that doesn't exist.

Police say the scam artist had provided a fake lease, address and property description to convince the victim to pay half of a deposit before a viewing.

Trading Standards recommends that islanders follow this advice to avoid similar occurrences:

- Only use letting agents and landlords that you know, trust or have good references for
- Don't fall for offers that look 'too good to be true' because they probably are
- Don't transfer any money before visiting the property and making sure the landlord owns it
- Watch out for people who want you to pay money immediately
- Where possible, pay using a protected method such as a credit card

The owner of a property can also be checked by requesting a copy of the deed from the Greffe for £2 a page. Most deeds are two or three pages long.

A spokesperson for Guernsey Police says people should continue to be wary.

“We would advise people looking to rent a property to be on their guard when entering into a rental agreement for a property which is advertised on social media and not connected to a local reputable letting agent. We would also advise people not to pay any deposits unless they have met the owner of the property or a verified representative in person if it is a private let."

Anyone who thinks they have encountered a scam should contact the police or Action Fraud.