When Renting in Loughborough
The process of finding a place to rent can be overwhelming and it is possible for fraudsters to exploit this. Rental scams can take many forms and are typically orchestrated by someone posing as a landlord or property agent, but they share one common element: attempting to get you to sign a lease or send money. In some cases, there is no rental to rent Loughborough student accommodation, or the person who allegedly leased it doesn’t even own it.
There are a few ways that you can avoid falling victim to a rental scam, including always insisting on seeing the property before signing a lease or sending any money and avoiding payment methods like Western Union or Moneygram which are difficult to trace. Tenants should also be wary of a landlord who only accepts cash as this could be an attempt to disguise fraudulent activity.
Scammers can be very convincing, particularly when they are posing as a property agent or landlord. They can make emails sound polite and professional and include logos and letterheads that look authentic. They may also talk about the property using familiar details, such as its location or a particular feature. They may also use your personal details that you have shared online, such as your address or phone number.
What to Do If Youve Been Scammed When Renting in Loughborough
If you are renting a Loughborough student accommodation with a landlord, you should always draw up an inventory of all the rooms and items that are included in the rent. This should be signed by both you and the landlord. This can help prevent disputes about what is and isn’t included in the agreement later on. Getting an inventory written up and signed by both parties can also help if you do need to claim compensation from your landlord for damages or repairs.
Homestays: Some students choose to live with local families, especially international students seeking cultural immersion and language practice. Homestays offer a unique experience of being part of a family while studying abroad.
It is also important to know your rights and responsibilities when it comes to renting in the UK. Landlords must by law ensure their properties are safe and fit for habitation. They must also provide a gas safety certificate for the boiler and electrics. If your landlord fails to meet these requirements, you can complain to the Housing Ombudsman.
You should also never agree to an oral lease. This type of contract is extremely difficult to prove and can be used by criminals as an excuse to escape responsibility for damage or breach of terms. A legally binding lease is the best way to protect yourself from fraud and any potential disputes.
If you think you’ve been a victim of rental fraud, it’s important to report it to your bank as soon as possible. They might be able to reverse the transaction or give you your money back. You can also contact your local Trading Standards office. They might not be able to refund you, but they can report it to the police. It’s also worth posting a scam alert on any housing communities on social media that you might be a member of. This can help protect other members and may lead to the criminal being stopped.