Essential Safety Tips for Apartment Hunting

The Reality of Rental Scams

Rental scams are more common than you might think. The FTC reports thousands of rental scam complaints each year, with victims losing an average of $1,000. Here's how to protect yourself.

Common Rental Scams

The "Landlord Is Away" Scam

They claim to be overseas or traveling and can't show the place. They'll ask you to wire money to secure it.

Red flag: Any request to send money without an in-person meeting.

The Hijacked Listing

Scammers copy legitimate listings and post them at lower prices with their own contact info.

Red flag: Price significantly below market rate.

The Bait and Switch

The listing looks great, but when you arrive, they say it's no longer available and try to show you something worse.

Red flag: Pressure to decide on an alternative quickly.

The Application Fee Scam

They collect application fees from multiple applicants with no intention of renting.

Red flag: Requesting large application fees before viewing the property.

Before the Viewing

Research

Google the address—has it been listed elsewhere?
Check the price against similar listings
Look up the landlord/property manager
Verify they actually own the property (public records)

Communication

Keep all communication on the platform initially
Be wary of requests to move to email or text quickly
Note any inconsistencies in their story

Logistics

Tell someone where you're going and when
Share your location with a friend or family member
Schedule viewings during daylight hours
Consider bringing someone with you

During the Viewing

Safety First

Meet in a public place first if possible
Keep your phone charged and accessible
Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, leave
Don't enter if you feel uncomfortable

What to Look For

Does the person showing it actually have keys?
Does the space match the listing photos?
Are there signs of current occupancy (someone else's stuff)?
Does the building/neighborhood feel safe?

Questions to Ask

Can I see your ID?
Who is the property owner? (Verify independently)
What's the application process?
Can I get everything in writing?

After the Viewing

Verify Before Paying

Never wire money or pay cash
Use secure payment methods with fraud protection
Read the lease carefully before signing
Verify the landlord's identity and ownership

Red Flags in Leases

No physical address for the landlord
Requests for full lease payment upfront
Pressure to sign immediately
Missing or vague terms

Using Cohabli Safely

Cohabli's safety features protect you:

Verified profiles: ID-checked users
Secure messaging: Keep conversations on platform
Background checks: Optional but recommended
Payment protection: Never send money outside Cohabli
Report button: Flag suspicious activity

If You've Been Scammed

1. Report to the platform immediately 2. Contact your bank (you may be able to reverse charges) 3. File a report with the FTC (reportfraud.ftc.gov) 4. Report to local police 5. Warn others (leave reviews, report the listing)

The Bottom Line

A little caution goes a long way. Legitimate landlords understand and appreciate safety-conscious renters. Anyone who pressures you or dismisses your concerns isn't someone you want to do business with.

Search safely on Cohabli. Our verified listings and user profiles help you find legitimate roommates and rentals. Start your secure search today.