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Stay Safe from Rental Scams

Protect yourself with these essential tips for safe rental hunting

Your safety is our priority

🚨 Quick Safety Checklist

Always view in person
Use secure payments
Verify the landlord
Research thoroughly

🔍 Verify the Listing & Property

Photo Verification

  • Perform reverse image searches on listing photos
  • Check if photos were stolen from other ads

Cross-Reference

  • Compare listings across multiple platforms
  • Use Google Maps and Street View to verify address

Warning: Be suspicious of listings that seem too good to be true!

🏠 Inspect the Property

In-Person Viewing

Request an in-person viewing before paying any money or signing a lease

Video Alternative

If you can't visit in person, ask for a live video walkthrough (be cautious of pre-recorded videos)

👤 Research the Landlord

Identity Verification

  • Look up landlord on public records
  • Search landlord's name and company online

Property Ownership

  • Check county assessor's office records
  • Verify property owner's name matches landlord

Red Flag: Vague descriptions or poor grammar in listings can be signs of a scam

💳 Payment & Contracts

NEVER Do This

  • Pay deposit before seeing property
  • Use wire transfers, gift cards, or crypto

DO This Instead

  • Use checks or credit cards
  • Get everything in writing

🚩 Major Red Flags

Urgency Pressure

Urgent requests for immediate payment or decision

Personal Info Requests

Requests for SSN or bank details before viewing

Too Good to Be True

Suspiciously low rent prices for the area

Trust your gut instincts - if something feels off or too rushed, continue your search!

Need Help or Have Questions?

If you encounter suspicious listings or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out

How Vancouver Island Life Keeps You Safe

Verified Users

All users must register with valid email addresses and phone numbers

Secure Messaging

Built-in messaging system keeps your contact information private

Local Focus

Focused on Vancouver Island communities with local verification