Using a reputable rental website doesn't guarantee that the listing is legitimate. As a tenant, it's important to stay alert to avoid scams. Start by investigating the listing: do a reverse image search to see if the photos appear elsewhere (e.g., on real estate sites), and check whether the contact information (including the area code) makes sense for Kingston. Many rental scams share common warning signs or follow similar patterns.
- Always view the property, virtually or in person, to confirm it actually exists. Scammers often claim they can't show the unit because they're "out of town" or "no longer in Kingston". They may also use pressure tactics, like saying "other students are ready to rent without viewing it". Treat this kind of language as a red flag.
- Never rent a property based only on photos and/or videos, you should always view the property virtually or in person. If you can't, ask a friend to view it for you. Scammers will never show the unit because it doesn't exist.
- Scammers often claim they've had to move suddenly and can't show the unit in person, saying they just need someone to "take good care of their property". They may present themselves as clergy, missionaries or doctors to appear more trustworthy. They'll then promise to mail the keys once the "required" deposit is paid.
- Scammers may try to sound legitimate by claiming a lawyer helped prepare the lease. Look for signs that the document was downloaded from the internet rather than professionally drafted. In Ontario, most rental agreements must use the Ontario Standard Lease. Scam leases often contain typos or basic errors, including incorrect addresses, that a real lawyer would not make.
- Scammers may advertise under one name but ask you to send money to an email or account with a different name. They may also request wire transfers or other hard-to-trace payment methods such as Moneygram or Bitcoin.
- Scammers may send "proof" of identity, such as a fake property ownership document and/or forged ID. A legitimate landlord would never share this kind of personal information with a prospective tenant.
- Correspondence with the "landlord" may come at unusual hours, sometimes as late as 3am, suggesting they may not be in the Kingston (EST) time zone.
- Scammers often pressure you to send money immediately, claiming the unit is in high demand. Pressure is their main tactic. The unit is frequently priced below market to make it seem like a great deal. Be cautious of any listings that seem too good to be true. When in doubt, slow down, think critically and investigate before paying anything.
- If you're renting out your room, watch for someone who "accidentally" sends too much money and then asks for a refund. This is a common scam. Their original payment will turn out to be fraudulent.
Housing fraud must be reported in the jurisdiction where the scam actually occurred. Even if the listing claimed to be in Kingston, the crime took place wherever you were when you contacted the scammer (your hometown, province or country).