Finding an apartment to rent in Canada can be stressful, especially in competitive housing markets like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. Unfortunately, rental scams are becoming increasingly common, preying on people looking for a quick and affordable place to live. These scams can cost victims hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Being informed and cautious can help you avoid becoming a target. Here’s how to spot rental scams in the Canadian apartment market.

1. Too Good to Be True

If a rental listing seems too good to be true, it probably is. A beautiful apartment in a prime location for a very low price is a classic red flag. Scammers often use attractive photos and low rent to lure people in quickly. Always compare the price to similar listings in the area. If the rent is significantly lower than average, be skeptical.

2. No In-Person Viewing

A legitimate landlord or property manager will always allow you to view the apartment before signing a lease or making a deposit. If the person insists that they are “out of town” or “unavailable” and refuses to show you the unit, this is a major warning sign. Some scammers may offer a “virtual tour,” but without a chance to see the property yourself or send someone on your behalf, it’s risky.

3. Requests for Upfront Payment

Never send money via e-transfer, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency to someone you haven’t met and for a property you haven’t seen. Scammers often ask for first and last month’s rent or a deposit to “secure” the apartment, only to disappear once the money is received. Always make payments after seeing the unit and signing a valid lease.

4. Poor Communication and Unprofessional Behavior

Watch out for emails or messages that are poorly written, generic, or overly urgent. Scammers often create a false sense of urgency, saying things like “many people are interested, send a deposit now to reserve it.” A real landlord will take the time to answer your questions and won’t pressure you to act without proper documentation.

5. Suspicious Listings and Duplicate Ads

Be cautious of listings that lack detailed information, have limited photos, or show signs of being copied from other websites. You can do a reverse image search on Google to see if the same photos are being used elsewhere with different contact information. This is a common tactic in scam ads.

6. No Official Lease Agreement

Always ask for a lease agreement and review it carefully. A proper lease should include the names of both the tenant and landlord, the rental term, payment terms, and responsibilities. If someone is unwilling to provide a lease or says it’s “not necessary,” that’s a red flag.

Final Tips:

• Use reputable rental websites like Realtor.ca, Rentals.ca, or ApartmentListing.ca .
• If you’re unsure, contact the property manager directly or call the building’s management office.
• Report suspicious listings to local authorities or to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Being vigilant and asking the right questions can save you from costly scams. When in doubt, trust your instincts and don’t rush the process.