Rental & Accommodation Scams
Get in touchAt Scam Claims, we specialise in supporting tenants, students, and holidaymakers and across the UK who have been targeted by fraudulent landlords, letting agents, or fake property listings.
Rental fraud is one of the fastest-growing types of scams in the UK, with victims tricked into paying deposits or rent upfront for properties that don’t exist, are already occupied, or are misrepresented.
We understand the financial and emotional impact these scams cause, and our team of rental fraud solicitors provides tailored legal support to pursue compensation, challenge negligent institutions, and maximise the chances of recovering funds.
Why Have Rental and Accommodation Scams Become a Growing Problem?
Rental and accommodation scams occur when fraudsters pose as landlords or letting agents to collect deposits, rent, or fees for properties they do not own or control.
Fraudsters exploit online platforms, classified adverts, and social media, using convincing but stolen photos and fabricated details. Victims often lose significant amounts of money and, in many cases, are left without a place to live or face losing thousands of pounds on holiday accommodation that never existed.
How Much Do Victims Typically Lose to Rental Scams in or Around ?
The cost of rental and accommodation scams varies, but victims often lose between £500–£2,000 on tenancy deposits alone, with higher losses where rent is paid in advance. Holiday accommodation scams can also cost hundreds or thousands depending on the booking.
According to Action Fraud, tenants across the UK collectively lose millions of pounds each year to these scams. Seeking prompt legal help improves the likelihood of recovering money.
Which Types of Rental and Holiday Accommodation Scams Are Most Common Across ?
Rental and accommodation scam solicitors regularly deal with a wide range of fraudulent schemes, including:
Fake property listings (online housing sites) – Fraudsters create convincing adverts for properties that do not exist.
Cloned adverts (using genuine photos) – Scammers steal real property photos to make fake listings look authentic.
Deposits before viewings – Victims are pressured to pay upfront before being allowed to view the property.
Holiday accommodation scams – Non-existent cottages, villas, or apartments are advertised at discounted rates to attract quick payments.
Student rental scams – Criminals target students during peak letting times, exploiting urgency and limited availability.
Can Victims Recover Money Lost to Rental Scams?
Victims may be able to recover some or all of their money lost to rental and accommodation scams under UK banking regulations and consumer law. Payments made by credit card, debit card, or bank transfer can often be challenged under Section 75 protections or Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud rules.
In some cases, victims may also be able to claim against property platforms or agents that failed to carry out due diligence. Legal representation increases the chances of reimbursement.
Contact Scam Claims to discuss your options for financial recovery.
How Do Lawyers Work With Banks, Platforms, and Authorities to Recover Funds?
Rental and accommodation scam solicitors work closely with banks to freeze suspicious transfers, request recalls, and pursue compensation under relevant fraud protections.
At the same time, they engage with online property platforms, letting agents, and payment providers to investigate fraudulent activity and hold negligent parties accountable. In addition, scams are reported to Action Fraud, Trading Standards, and the police to ensure that each case is formally recorded and investigated.
Are No Win, No Fee Options Available for Rental Fraud Claims?
Our rental and accommodation scam solicitors offer no win, no fee agreements. This allows victims to pursue claims without paying upfront solicitor’s fees.
Instead, solicitor’s costs are only recovered if the case succeeds, typically as a percentage of the compensation secured. This ensures victims can access justice without additional financial strain.
What’s the Process for Bringing a Rental Scam Claim Forward in or Around ?
The process of pursuing a rental and accommodation scams claim begins with an initial consultation. A solicitor will review evidence such as tenancy agreements, bank statements, correspondence, and screenshots of the property advert.
From there, they prepare the claim, contact the relevant bank or platform, and escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service or civil courts where necessary. Most cases are resolved through negotiation or regulatory complaints, with solicitors providing regular updates and guidance.
What Legal Support Do Fraud Solicitors Provide for Rental Scam Cases?
Rental and accommodation scam solicitors provide a full range of services to support victims of fraud, such as:
Case assessment – Reviewing the strength of a claim and identifying the most effective recovery options.
Evidence gathering – Collecting tenancy agreements, bank statements, correspondence, and screenshots of fraudulent adverts.
Claims against banks – Challenging financial institutions under APP fraud and Section 75 protections.
Regulatory complaints – Filing complaints with the Financial Ombudsman Service or other regulators where applicable.
Civil litigation – Pursuing legal action directly against fraudsters or negligent third parties.
Reporting support – Assisting victims with reporting cases to Action Fraud, Trading Standards, and the police.
Do Solicitors Handle Both Domestic and International Rental Scam Cases?
Rental and accommodation scam solicitors handle both UK-based and international cases. Many holiday frauds involve overseas properties, but since most payments are processed through UK banks, claims can often be pursued domestically.
Where necessary, solicitors also work with foreign banks and regulators to trace funds and seek recovery.
Contact Scam Claims today to find out how we can support your case.
Get in touch
Skip to
Gallery
