Rental scams are a recurring issue in the German housing market, particularly in large cities where demand is high and listings appear rapidly. Scam attempts can occur on both informal and formal platforms, including WG-Gesucht, eBay Kleinanzeigen, ImmoScout24, and various social media groups.
This guide outlines the most common tricks used by fraudulent advertisers, methods for verifying legitimate offers, warning signs that indicate suspicious activity, and essential steps for protecting deposits and personal information.
Common Types of Rental Scams
A) Advance-Payment Scams
Scammers request a deposit, first month’s rent, or a “reservation fee” before any viewing has taken place. The requested transfer often includes international bank accounts, cryptocurrency, or untraceable payment services.
B) Landlords Claiming to Be Abroad
A common script involves a landlord allegedly living abroad for work or family reasons, stating that keys cannot be handed over in person. Scammers often claim that a courier service or a “trusted agency” will deliver the keys after payment.
C) Fake Sublets
Fraudulent sublet offers appear on informal websites and social platforms. The room may not exist, or the advertiser may not have legal authority to sublet the property.
D) Misuse of Real Apartment Photos
Scammers frequently steal photos and descriptions from legitimate listings.
Multiple identical listings appearing in different cities or at unusually low prices often indicate fraudulent activity.
E) Fake Agency or Contract Fees
Some individuals pose as real estate agents and demand upfront “processing fees” or “application fees.” Legitimate agents in Germany are not permitted to charge such fees to tenants under standard rental regulations.
Warning Signs of Suspicious Listings
• Prices significantly below market averages
• No viewing offered before payment
• Communication in inconsistent or unnatural English/German
• Pressure to make immediate financial commitments
• Requests to move the conversation outside official platforms
• Advertisers refusing to provide identification or rental documents
• Listings with incomplete address information
Recognizing these indicators is essential for avoiding financial loss or identity theft.
How to Verify Rental Offers
A) Request a Viewing (In-Person or Virtual)
Legitimate landlords typically allow viewings or video tours. Refusal or avoidance is a major red flag.
B) Check the Building Address
A quick search of the address through online maps, property websites, or street view tools can help determine whether the property exists and matches the listing.
C) Verify Ownership or Sublet Permission
Authentic landlords can provide:
• Proof of ownership (Grundbuchauszug or property documents)
• A valid rental contract (Mietvertrag)
• Written permission for sublets from the main landlord
D) Examine Email Domains and Signatures
Professional agencies use official email domains rather than anonymous personal addresses.
E) Compare Listings Across Platforms
Repeated use of identical photos or descriptions across unrelated listings often signals fraudulent activity.
F) Avoid External Payment Links
Suspicious payment gateways or third-party “key delivery services” should be avoided entirely.
Protecting Deposits and Financial Information
A) Never Transfer Money Before Viewing
Deposits, rent, and reservation fees should only be transferred after a formal contract is signed and the landlord’s identity has been verified.
B) Use Traceable German Bank Transfers
Legitimate rental transactions are typically conducted through SEPA bank transfers. Cash payments or international transfers are not standard practice.
C) Review the Contract Carefully
Contracts should contain:
• Full names of both parties
• Complete address of the property
• Rental terms
• Deposit amount (Kaution)
• Conditions for moving out
• Nebenkosten breakdown
D) Understand Deposit Regulations
Deposits must be:
• Stored in a separate escrow-style account
• Refundable after move-out
• Limited to a maximum of three months’ cold rent
Any deviation from these rules requires caution.
What To Do If Fraud Is Suspected
• Save all communication records
• Report the listing to the platform
• File a complaint with the local police (Polizei)
• Contact the bank immediately if a transfer was made
• Notify student advisory services or international offices for further assistance
Early reporting improves the likelihood of stopping fraudulent activity.
Summary
Rental scams in Germany often follow predictable patterns centered around upfront payment requests, falsified listings, and urgent communication tactics. Awareness of warning signs, verification methods, and legal requirements significantly reduces the risk of falling victim to fraud. Legitimate rentals prioritize transparency, allow viewings, and comply with standard documentation and deposit procedures.