Finding the perfect place to live as a student in a new country can be difficult, especially when there is a bit of a language barrier.

With the demand for luxury and private student accommodation in cities like London on a constant rise, it’s not surprising that many students fall victim to rental scams.

In this post, we will highlight 5 red flags to look out for when searching for private student accommodation in London or the rest of the UK.

Key Takeaways

Many students fall victim to rental scams in cities like London. Property fraudsters often take advantage of the language barrier and students' lack of experience to scam them of their money.
Some of the most common types of rental scams are those involving nonexistent properties, missing amenities, clickbait apartments, and pre-leased apartments.
On Student Luxe, you can find authentic private student accommodations in London and the UK. These apartments are vetted to be 100% real with all mentioned amenities and are located near campus. You can also explore different accommodation options in various UK cities, from Glasgow to Edinburgh.

What is a Rental Scam?

A rental scam is a fraudulent scheme in which scammers deceive potential renters into paying money for a property that is either non-existent, unavailable for rent, or misrepresented.

These scams can take various forms, but their primary goal is to steal money from unsuspecting individuals, usually international students, by exploiting their need for housing.

Types of Rental Scams

Some of the common types of rental scams are:

Fake Listings: Scammers create attractive listings for properties that either don't exist or are not actually available for rent. They often pull photos and descriptions from legitimate real estate websites to make their listings look authentic.
Phantom Rentals: In this scenario, the scammer advertises a property that doesn't exist at all. They might lure you with a fantastic deal or an unusually low rent to get your attention and prompt a quick response.
Hijacked Ads: Here, scammers take over a legitimate rental listing by changing the contact information. They might use the real property details but direct inquiries to themselves, not the actual landlord or property manager.
Upfront Payment Scams: The scammer demands a security deposit or rent payment upfront, often before you’ve had a chance to view the property in person. Once they receive the payment, they disappear, leaving you without your money and still in need of housing.
Overpayment Scams: In this type, the scammer poses as a tenant and sends a check for more than the required amount, asking you to wire back the difference. The check eventually bounces, and you’re left out of the money you returned.

Common Rental Scam Red Flags

If you spot any of these red flags when trying to rent student accommodation online, there is a great chance you are being scammed.

Requests for Upfront Payment: Avoid landlords or property agents who ask for a security deposit or rent payment before you’ve seen the property or signed a lease.

Unusually Low Rent: If the rent seems too good to be true, particularly for areas in central London like Covent Garden or Kensington, it probably is. Scammers often lure victims with below-market rates.
Pressure to Act Quickly: Scammers create a sense of urgency to prevent you from doing due diligence. If an agent keeps pressuring you to pay quickly, it could be a scam.
Lack of Proper Documentation: Legitimate rentals require a lease agreement and proper documentation. If these are missing or look suspicious, you should proceed with caution.
Odd Payment Methods: Requests for payment via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards are major red flags.
No In-Person Interaction: If the landlord or property manager is unable or unwilling to meet in person or show the property, it’s likely a scam.

How to Avoid Being Scammed

Here are some tips to protect yourself from falling victim to rental scams, especially as an international student in the UK.

Research the Property: Verify the property’s existence and availability through other listings or by contacting local real estate agents.

Visit in Person: Always try to view the property in person before making any payments.
Verify the Landlord: Ensure the person you’re dealing with is the actual landlord or a legitimate property manager. Check their identity and contact information.
Use Reputable Websites: Stick to well-known rental student accommodation listing websites like Student Luxe that offer fraud protection measures.
Get a Lease Agreement: Ensure everything is documented in a formal lease agreement before making any payments.

Why Student Luxe?

Student Luxe Apartments

Choosing where to live during your studies is a significant decision, and it’s important to use a property management company that understands your needs and is willing to help you find the perfect accommodation.

Here are some reasons why you should choose Student Luxe.

Premium Comfort and Amenities

Modern Living Spaces: Student Luxe provides contemporary, fully furnished apartments that are designed with students’ needs in mind. From spacious bedrooms to well-equipped kitchens and stylish living areas, every detail is crafted for comfort and convenience.
High-End Amenities: Enjoy access to exclusive amenities such as fitness centres, study lounges, game rooms, and social spaces.
Security and Maintenance: With 24/7 security and on-site maintenance services, Student Luxe ensures a safe and hassle-free living environment. You can focus on your studies without worrying about repairs or security issues.

Convenient Location

Proximity to Universities: Student Luxe properties are strategically located near major universities, including KCL, Imperial College, QMUL etc., and many others. Short commutes mean more time for studying, attending classes, and participating in campus activities.
Transport Links: Excellent transport links, including nearby bus stops and Underground stations, make it easy to navigate the city and explore all that London has to offer.

Flexible and Hassle-Free Living

All-Inclusive Packages: Student Luxe offers all-inclusive rent packages that cover utilities, internet, and other essentials. This simplicity allows you to live comfortably without worrying about additional bills.
Flexible Lease Terms: Student Luxe understands the varied needs of students and offers flexible lease terms to accommodate different academic schedules and personal circumstances.

Learn more

Wrapping Up

Before paying for any student accommodation, ensure the property company is reputable and authentic to avoid being scammed.

Choose a reliable luxury student property company like Student Luxe. These experts will help you access the most private, flexible, and luxurious accommodation on Student Luxe.

These apartments are designed for the well-traveled, wealthy, and international student with a taste for opulence in living spaces.

Here’s our flex…

Flexible living experience, no long-term contracts, no UK-guarantor needed, proximity to different universities, and ultra-modern, stunning apartments designed for your comfort.

Reach out to our experts, who can secure a special stay for your studies.

5 Ways to Spot a Student Accommodation Rental Scam