Limerick students warned as rental scam losses top €400,000

THERE is a particular warning for students and parents at this time of year regarding accommodation fraud in Limerick.

Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, Crime Prevention Office, Henry Street Garda Station said:

“Unfortunately, accommodation fraud is a significant concern as students begin looking for college accommodation. In the first seven months of 2026, we have received more than 230 reports of rental and reservation scams, with reported losses exceeding €400,000. We traditionally see a marked increase between August and October as demand for student accommodation rises.

“There are a number of common approaches. A scammer may pose as a landlord who is supposedly abroad and request a deposit before allowing the student to view the property. We also see properties advertised to multiple prospective tenants, with deposits taken from each person. In other cases, everything can appear legitimate until the student arrives and discovers the accommodation isn’t available or the keys don’t work,” added Sgt O’Halloran.

“Be particularly cautious where the price is significantly below the normal market rate, where you’re being pressured to make an immediate payment, or where the person refuses to allow you to view the property. Unusual payment requests, such as cash or cryptocurrency, should also raise concerns.

The local crime prevention officer advised people to view accommodation in person and verify the identity of the person you’re dealing with.

“Check the tenancy information and use the Residential Tenancy Board rent index to compare local rental prices. It’s also worthwhile reverse-image searching photographs used in an advertisement, as these can sometimes be taken from genuine listings.

Sgt O’Halloran concluded: “Where payment is required, use a secure and traceable method. Never transfer money to a stranger through cryptocurrency or other untraceable methods simply because you’re being placed under pressure.”