1. No Rent Agreement Required
If a landlord offers a property without a written lease, it is a major red flag. A rental agreement protects both parties by clearly stating the rental amount, duration of stay, and terms of property use. Without an agreement, tenants are at risk of illegal practices or disputes in the future.
2. Asking for Money Before the Site Visit
Some brokers ask for advance payment in cash before showing the property. This is a frequent scam. Never pay upfront without seeing the property. Photos can easily be manipulated, so always visit the property in person before finalizing any payment.
3. Fake Real Estate Agents
Consulting unverified agents can lead to scams. The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) requires agents to register and obtain a valid RERA ID. Tenants should always check the agent’s registration on the state RERA website.
Infinity Housing also provides verified listings, reducing the risk of dealing with fake agents.
4. Holding Back the Security Deposit
Some landlords withhold the security deposit citing excessive damages. Tenants should take photos or record videos of the property before moving in and after moving out to ensure transparency and avoid disputes.
5. Too Eager to Rent the Property
If a landlord appears overly eager to rent out the property, it could be a red flag. Tenants should conduct background checks and verify the landlord’s credentials before signing any agreement.
Tips to Avoid Rental Scams
Steer Clear of Cash Deals
Avoid cash payments as they are difficult to track. Use online transfers or cheques for security and transparency.
Ask for a Written Lease Agreement
Always ensure a formal written agreement exists, detailing both landlord and tenant responsibilities. A verbal agreement is risky and can lead to disputes.
Make an In-Person Visit
Never agree to rent a property without visiting it personally. Meet the landlord in person and confirm the property details before signing an agreement.
Additional tips:
- Check current rental rates to avoid overpaying.
- Speak to existing tenants for feedback on the property and landlord.
- If the lease is longer than 11 months, ensure it is registered at the sub-registrar’s office and stamped. For agreements up to 11 months, registration is not mandatory.
Being aware of market trends and conducting due diligence is key to avoiding rental scams. Technology is a double-edged sword—it makes property hunting easier but can also be misused by fraudsters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No. Always visit the property first. Paying in advance without verification is risky and a common tactic used by scammers.
No. Do not pay any amount until a written lease agreement is prepared and all property details are verified.
- No clearly mentioned rental amount or tenure
- Missing landlord or tenant details
- Unreasonably high maintenance charges
- Ambiguous clauses that favor the landlord disproportionately
Infinity Housing emphasizes that due diligence, in-person verification, and proper agreements are essential for a safe rental experience. Always stay alert to avoid falling victim to scams.
