North Wales Police has warned of a rise in rental fraud. (Image: Newsquest)
POLICE are warning people to be vigilant following an increase of reports of rental fraud, particularly in the Wrexham area.
North Wales Police has said that members of the public are attempting to rent properties that are advertised on Marketplaces on social media.
They are paying an upfront deposit of up to £300 to secure the property only to later find that the person they paid the deposit to was nothing to do with the property.
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In actual fact the property is not for sale or rent at all.
Police have issued the following guidance about the matter:
- Don’t send money to anyone advertising rental properties online until you’re sure the advertiser is genuine.
- Don’t pay any money until you or a reliable contact has visited the property with an agent or the landlord.
- Ask for copies of tenancy agreements and any safety certificates such as Gas Electricity or HMO Licence.
- Do not be pressurised into transferring large sums of money. Transfer funds to a bank account having obtained the details by contacting the landlord or agent directly after the above steps have been followed. Be sceptical if you’re asked to transfer any money via a money transfer service, such as Western Union.
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