With accommodation shortages dominating the housing market, Irish students are facing a growing threat from fraudsters posing as landlords and letting agents. Gardaí have warned of a significant increase in scams targeting young renters, with losses already exceeding €385,000 this year. As demand spikes in August and September, when most students secure housing, experts are urging students to exercise caution.
The scams often follow a predictable pattern. Fraudsters advertise properties online, frequently through social media groups or cloned property websites, offering attractive rents in high-demand areas. Students are then pressured to pay deposits quickly, often via untraceable methods such as Revolut, cryptocurrency, or cash. Once the money is transferred, the supposed landlord disappears, leaving the victim out of pocket and still searching for accommodation. John Lowe of MoneyDoctors.ie gives insights into what to watch out for…
The red flags
Authorities and housing support groups have outlined several common warning signs:
- Unrealistically low rents compared with average prices in the area.
- Refusal to allow property viewings, or excuses about being abroad.
- Urgency tactics, such as “one-time offers” or claims that multiple people are interested.
- Vague, poorly written adverts with limited details or stolen photos.
- Payment requests through cash, Revolut, or cryptocurrency, which are harder to trace.
Steps to stay safe
Experts recommend students take the following precautions before committing to any lease:
- View the property in person or through a verified video tour before paying money.
- Use secure payment methods such as bank transfers or credit cards that offer consumer protections.
- Insist on a signed tenancy agreement and an official receipt for any payments.
- Verify the landlord’s identity by requesting photo ID and checking that the property is registered with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB).
- Cross-check the rent price against the RTB rent index and search the address on Google Maps or do a reverse image search of photos to confirm authenticity.
Support for students
Housing charity Threshold has warned that rental scams can cause severe financial and emotional strain, especially for students who have limited budgets and little experience in the rental market. Threshold operates a free helpline at 1800 454 454 where students can seek advice before transferring money. Students’ Unions across the country are also encouraging members to seek guidance if a listing or landlord seems suspicious.
A Garda spokesperson said: “Students should take their time, ask questions, and avoid being pressured into paying deposits on properties they haven’t seen. If a deal seems too good to be true, it usually is.”
With demand for student housing showing no sign of easing, vigilance and preparation remain the strongest protections against accommodation fraud.
A good percentage of the landlords operate the Rent A Room Allowance tax benefit – this allows the homeowner to rent a room or two out and receive up to € 14,000 tax free every year. Checking with the landlord that they are one of these RARA landlords will give comfort that it is more than likely not a scam !
Caveat emptor !