Most rental ads are genuine, but scams do happen. Knowing the warning signs helps you stay safe.
Common warning signs
- The price is far lower than similar places nearby.
- The advertiser says they are out of the country and cannot show the place.
- You are asked to send a deposit before viewing, or to pay by gift card, cryptocurrency or wire transfer.
- The advertiser pressures you to decide right away.
- Photos look like a magazine or appear in other ads with different details.
- The messages are full of odd wording or ask you to move the conversation to a private chat.
How to protect yourself
- View the place in person, or by live video walk-through, before paying.
- Check that the person you deal with is the owner or an authorized agent.
- Search the address and photos online to see whether they appear in other ads.
- Pay by a traceable method and always get a receipt and a written lease.
- Never share sensitive personal documents until you are confident the listing is real.
If something feels wrong
Stop talking to the advertiser and do not send money. If you have already paid, contact your bank right away and report the matter to your local police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. You can also tell us about a suspicious listing through our Report a listing page.