Tenancy fraud: how to protect your property from professional scammers
Owners – could you spot a professional fraudster before they move into your property?
Most tenancies go smoothly, with respectful Residents and a well-maintained home.
But in recent years, the Private Rental Sector has seen a worrying rise in tenancy fraud – sophisticated scams designed to deceive owners and agents alike. And the damage left behind? Often devastating.
At Maxine Lester, we’ve seen first-hand how easily owners can be targeted, especially when a scammer presents themselves as the perfect resident: cash upfront; smooth talk; a compelling story. But underneath the charm, these fraudsters are seeking to bypass the safeguards that protect your property and your investment.
A seemingly ideal tenant – with a hidden agenda
In a recent real-life case shared by our referencing partners, a woman claiming to be vulnerable and desperate for housing offered six months’ rent in advance – in cash. She appeared genuine, and the offer felt like a relief. But once the tenancy began, everything changed.
No communication and refused inspections. When entry was eventually forced, the truth was revealed: the home had been converted into a cannabis farm. She’d never lived there. The damage was severe, the legal process exhausting, and the owner left reeling.
Why upfront payment can be a red flag
It’s easy to see why owners might feel reassured by a large upfront payment – especially during uncertain times. But sadly, this tactic is commonly used by fraudsters to avoid the checks that protect your property. It creates a false sense of security, encouraging some agents to skip referencing.
That’s where we’re different.
At Maxine Lester, we never compromise on checks. Whether a resident pays monthly or upfront, we conduct comprehensive referencing which means even looking into social media posts. We also conduct ID validation, open banking, income verification, and ‘Know Your Customer’ technology – all designed to stop fraud in its tracks.
The hidden HMO: when fraud becomes a legal nightmare
In another case, recently reported, a student from overseas offered a year’s rent upfront. No full referencing was carried out. Inspections were delayed, and when finally accessed, the property was being sublet to multiple unsuspecting students under fake agreements. It had become an illegal HMO – and the owner was liable.
They hadn’t just been scammed, they were now responsible for evicting innocent people and rectifying licensing breaches. This is why professional referencing matters. It’s not just about ticking a box – it’s about protecting your property, your peace of mind, and your future.
Our promise: peace of mind for every tenancy
We believe your property should be protected at all times, no matter how convincing the story or generous the upfront payment. In some respects when to Renters Rights Bill is passed (hopefully in September) up-front payments will be illegal so if you are offered them that is a big red flag.
We have been referencing applicants for over 20 years so have quite a bit of experience in spotting things that just don’t add up. Yes, that make us very cynical but better that than having the wool pulled over our eyes for a hard luck story. We spot the red flags. We ask the difficult questions. And we never rush to place someone who might not be who they say they are.
It’s how we deliver Expert, Honourable and Personal service – every single time.
If you would like to find out more about how the Maxine Lester way can help you, just give us a call on 01480 494939
