What to look out for with housing sites:
- Pay attention to fees!
Rule of thumb: if you have to pay money to reply, the site is often unreliable. Many sites require an expensive paid subscription, sometimes up to €40 a month, to reply to advertisements. These types of platforms often use web scrapers to copy ads from other sites. This gives the impression that there is a rich supply, when in reality, you will get no response from most ads.
Moreover, the cost is usually on you and not the landlord, which also attracts other scammers. While there may be real properties on such sites, the selection is often much smaller than it seems. You can use a web scraper yourself to search the internet for housing offers, which means you don’t have to rely on unreliable sites. - Check website security.
Some scammers use a URL that closely resembles a trustworthy site. Always check that there is a lock in the URL bar and search for the website via Google rather than entering the URL manually.
What to look out for in an ad:
- If it’s too good to be true…
It often is. Beware of websites with extremely low prices or luxury properties offered far below market price. - Look for identifying information.
Check if the landlord can provide contact details, a registered address or proof of identity. Verify these details online or via Het Kadaster (€3.35 per search). Do not blindly assume that supplied information is correct. - Check images.
Use Google Images to check that the photos are not copied from other ads. If the same photos appear elsewhere, this is suspicious. - Arrange viewings.
Make sure you have seen the property yourself or someone you trust has done so. Also makes sure that the key handover takes place in person and at the property. Without a viewing or personal key handover, you are at great risk. - Registration possible?
A legitimate rental property allows you to register at the address. If this is not possible, chances are the property is being rented out illegally. - Recognise manipulation tactics.
Scammers often push for quick decisions, such as unrealistic deadlines or immediate transfer of deposit and rent. Always take the time to read the contract calmly. - Check fees.
Asking for a deposit is normal, but always ask for proof of payment. Additional fees, such as administration, consultancy or key money, are often unreliable. Avoid making cash payments and be alert to foreign bank accounts. If you pay, make sure it is through a traceable method and always ask for proof. - Be careful with your ID.
Remove your BSN number when providing a copy of your ID. For example, use the government’s app to do this securely. An unprotected BSN number can lead to identity fraud.
What if you got scammed?
Have you been scammed or suspect you are a victim? Report it to the police immediately. You can also report to Stichting Woon! at ”Meldpunt Ongewenst Huurgedrag”.