{"id":22433,"date":"2025-11-14T16:04:42","date_gmt":"2025-11-14T10:34:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/?p=22433"},"modified":"2026-02-28T17:01:41","modified_gmt":"2026-02-28T11:31:41","slug":"top-student-housing-scams","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/","title":{"rendered":"Top Student Housing Scams to Watch Out for"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_83 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/#Major_Student_Housing_Scams_to_Look_Out_For\" >Major Student Housing Scams to Look Out For:&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/#The_Fake_Listing_Scam\" >The Fake Listing Scam&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/#The_%E2%80%98Pay_Before_Viewing_Scam\" >The \u2018Pay Before Viewing\u2019 Scam&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/#Fake_Agent_Scam\" >Fake Agent Scam&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/#Too-Cheap-To-Be-True\" >Too-Cheap-To-Be-True &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/#The_%E2%80%98No_Contract_Needed_Scam\" >The \u2018No Contract Needed\u2019 Scam&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/#How_To_Avoid_Student_Housing_Scams\" >How To Avoid Student Housing Scams&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/#Request_a_Virtual_Tour\" >Request a Virtual Tour&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/#Check_The_Address_on_Google_Maps\" >Check The Address on Google Maps&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/#Book_Through_Verified_Student_Housing_Platforms\" >Book Through Verified Student Housing Platforms&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/#Avoid_Cash_Crypto_or_Gift_Card_Payments\" >Avoid Cash, Crypto or Gift Card Payments&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/#Check_Reviews\" >Check Reviews &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-student-housing-scams\/#Final_Thoughts\" >Final Thoughts&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p>Receiving the offer letter of your dream university abroad is one of the best feelings in the world. But that is not all that matters when it comes to studying abroad as an international student. One of the biggest challenges students face is finding verified and safe student accommodation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every year, thousands of international students become victims of online rental scams<strong>. <\/strong>They are away from the country and have to take decisions solely on photos of a few properties. It gets overwhelming. This guide on how to spot housing scams, warning signs<strong>, <\/strong>and<strong> <\/strong>most common student scams can help you rent better.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Major_Student_Housing_Scams_to_Look_Out_For\"><\/span><strong>Major Student Housing Scams to Look Out For:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, there is an endless list of housing scams happening daily with international students. The scammers know that the students are miles away from the properties, and they are desperate to find a place to call home. But if you are prepared well, you will know when you have come across a scammer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Fake_Listing_Scam\"><\/span><strong>The Fake Listing Scam<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is the most common one. The scammer will post a beautiful property, add pictures and a \u2018too good to be true\u2019 price tag. Then, once you pay them, they will vanish.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Red Flags:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Photos are just too perfect, or they match photos from another website.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The \u2018landlord\u2019 refuses a video tour or live viewings.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>They rush you to pay without answering your questions.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Tip: If the room is not available for video tour, don\u2019t pay a single penny.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_%E2%80%98Pay_Before_Viewing_Scam\"><\/span><strong>The \u2018Pay Before Viewing\u2019 Scam<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Students often fall for this because they are in a rush. The scammers are pro; they will keep telling you to pay fast because the room is in high demand or something else.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Red Flags:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>They ask you to make the payment before any contract is drawn up.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>There is no verified business website or address.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>All communications are done informally on WhatsApp. Nothing in Email.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Tip: Please don\u2019t pay before viewing the property or getting a contract.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fake_Agent_Scam\"><\/span><strong>Fake Agent Scam<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This time, the property exists. But the landlord is fake. The scammer pretends to be a housing agent by showing fake IDs, registration numbers, and sometimes even fake tenancy agreements.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Red Flags: &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>They avoid answering basic tenancy-related questions.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ask you to send your documents quickly.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>They ask your for big a amount to hold your booking.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Tip: Verified platforms like <strong>University Living<\/strong> are the best to ensure you\u2019re not being scammed.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Too-Cheap-To-Be-True\"><\/span><strong>Too-Cheap-To-Be-True <\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Another common student housing scam that international students often fall for. If a property gives luxurious vibes and the price is even half of the average rent, RUN.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Red Flags:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rent is nowhere near the market price.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Pictures look staged or are inconsistent.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>There are no previous tenants&#8217; reviews.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Tip: The average rent in London is \u00a3300 per week. If someone is giving amazing <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">student accommodation<\/a><\/strong> at just \u00a3125 with included bills, gym, and more, then you must run.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_%E2%80%98No_Contract_Needed_Scam\"><\/span><strong>The \u2018No Contract Needed\u2019 Scam<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Some scammers try to convince you that a contract is not needed for renting student housing. Or they will ask you to pay now, and the contract will be taken care of when you arrive.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Red Flags: &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>No written contract.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Vague information about tenancy lengths.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>No protection for security protection.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Tip: There is no accommodation without a contract. That\u2019s a rule.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_To_Avoid_Student_Housing_Scams\"><\/span><strong>How To Avoid Student Housing Scams<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, international students get scammed every other day. But you can save yourself and your friends if you have the right guide. Given below are ways through which students can avoid student accommodation fraud.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Request_a_Virtual_Tour\"><\/span><strong>Request a Virtual Tour<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A genuine landlord or provider will be happy to show you the property on WhatsApp Video Call, Zoom or Google Meet. If they refuse or delay it, walk away.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Check_The_Address_on_Google_Maps\"><\/span><strong>Check The Address on Google Maps<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Take the property address from the landlord and paste it on Google Maps. Are the property images the same? Make sure they are. If not, walk away.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Book_Through_Verified_Student_Housing_Platforms\"><\/span><strong>Book Through Verified Student Housing Platforms<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Student Accommodation platforms like <strong>University Living<\/strong> help you rent a verified and authentic apartment. They have a wide variety of <strong>safe student housing for international students<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Avoid_Cash_Crypto_or_Gift_Card_Payments\"><\/span><strong>Avoid Cash, Crypto or Gift Card Payments<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Scammers also prefer payment methods that cannot be traced easily. So, they will ask you to make the payment in cash majorly. But the safe methods to use are bank transfers, card payments, and verified student accommodation platforms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Check_Reviews\"><\/span><strong>Check Reviews <\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is the best way to know if you have chosen the right student apartment. Students often leave honest reviews about safety, noise, experience, and more. Trust them.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_Thoughts\"><\/span><strong>Final Thoughts<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The journey of studying abroad is transformational, rewarding, and too precious to mess up. If it is your first time moving abroad, then this guide to safe housing is for you. Stay alert, double-check everything you see, and trust your gut feeling always.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Receiving the offer letter of your dream university abroad is one of the best feelings in the world. But that is not all that matters when it comes to studying abroad as an international student. One of the biggest challenges students face is finding verified and safe student accommodation.&nbsp; Every year, thousands of international students [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":22434,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[544],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-22433","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-accommodation"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22433","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=22433"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22433\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/22434"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=22433"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=22433"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=22433"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}