Gardaí caution students following increase in rental scams in Limerick

THIRD-LEVEL students are being warned to look out for rental scams ahead of the new academic year.

"This time of year always sees a spike in rental scams, especially with a new wave of third-level students looking for somewhere to live. These scams tend to fall into three main categories. First, there’s the classic one where the scammer claims they’re out of the country and can’t show you the property — but they’ll still ask for a deposit upfront," said Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, Crime Prevention Officer at Henry Street Garda Station.

"Second, we’ve seen cases where the scammer is actually living at the property and invites multiple people to view it — then takes deposits from all of them and disappears with the money."

Sgt O’Halloran continued: "And third, there’s the scam that looks totally normal — right up until the renter tries to move in and realises the keys don’t work, the landlord is unreachable, and the property isn’t available at all."

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The crime prevention officer advised students to do their checks. "Confirm that the property exists, that it’s genuinely available to rent, and that the person offering it is actually authorised to do so."

"Ideally, you should only deal with established, reputable rental agencies or through trusted friend or students unions. Always try to meet the landlord or letting agent in person, and make sure you meet them at the property itself," stated Sgt O’Halloran.

She said deposits should only be paid directly to the landlord or a verified agent — not to someone moving out, or worse, through a courier. "Keep a record of everything — receipts, emails, text messages."

"Crucially, don’t hand over any money until you’ve physically seen the property, checked that the keys work, and signed a rental contract."