Accommodation Scams in Germany

Common Types of Accommodation Scams in Germany

1. The Advance Payment Scam

• Never transfer money before signing a contract. In Germany, no legitimate landlord will ask for payment upfront.

• Ask for detailed photos and videos of the property, and make sure to check if they’re consistent across different platforms.

2. Fake Rental Listings

• Stick to reputable websites like WG-Gesucht, ImmobilienScout24, and HousingAnywhere. These platforms often have verification processes to filter out fake listings.

• If a listing looks too good to be true (e.g., a central, furnished apartment for only €300/month), it probably is.

• View the property in person before transferring any money. Always!

3. Fake Security Deposit Promises

• Make sure to have a written rental agreement specifying the terms and conditions for returning the security deposit. The deposit should be returned within a reasonable time after you move out (usually 6 months or less).

• Never pay a deposit without signing a detailed contract.

4. Hidden Costs: Utilities and Other Expenses

• Ask if the rent is "Kaltmiete" (cold rent) or "Warmmiete" (warm rent). Warm rent includes utilities like heating, while cold rent does not. Always clarify what’s included.

• Consider taking liability insurance for the duration of your stay. In Germany, liability insurance is common and can protect you from unexpected costs for property damage that may add up to other costs of living.

5. Common Excuses from Scammers

• If a landlord says they are outside Germany, respond with, “I will come and pay,” and provide a screenshot of your visa. Legitimate landlords will accommodate a viewing.

• Always ensure that you have a handover protocol in place. Before signing, verify that everything is documented and in good condition; otherwise, you may be held liable for damages.

Recognising Red Flags For Accommodation Scams in Germany

• Too Good to Be True Prices: If the rent is significantly lower than similar listings, especially in prime locations, be cautious.

• Landlord Outside Germany: If the landlord claims to be abroad and asks you to transfer money to them, it’s a major red flag. Always meet the landlord in person or, at the very least, arrange a video call.

• No Viewing Option: If the landlord refuses to let you view the apartment in person or provides excuses like "I’m out of the country," it’s likely a scam.

• Suspicious Payment Methods: Scammers often request payments through Western Union, MoneyGram, or other untraceable platforms. Stick to secure payment methods, like bank transfers, which offer more protection.

• Copy-Paste Listings: Some scammers use the same photos and descriptions for different properties in multiple cities. Check if the listing is legitimate by running a reverse image search of the property photos on Google.

• Non-Existent Addresses: Always verify the address provided by using Google Maps. If the location doesn’t exist or is vastly different from the description, it’s a scam.

Protect Yourself: What To Do Before Renting

1. Use Verified Platforms: Websites like WG-Gesucht, StudierendenWERK, and ImmobilienScout24 are commonly used in Germany and have safeguards against scams.

2. Viewing Is a Must: Always visit the property in person, or ask a friend to do so if you are still abroad. If you can’t visit, arrange a video tour.

3. Secure Payments: Only transfer money after you’ve seen the property, signed a contract, and verified the landlord’s identity.

4. Review the Contract: Make sure the rental contract is comprehensive and includes all terms (rent amount, duration, deposit return terms, utility costs). If needed, get a German-speaking friend or advisor to help review it.

5. Check Schufa: In Germany, many landlords check your Schufa (credit score) before agreeing to rent. If they don’t, this can be suspicious for high-end properties.

6. City Registration: Make sure the room allows for "Anmeldung" (city registration). You’ll need this to open a bank account and complete other official procedures.

7. Avoid sending your ID documents before verifying the property.

8. Be cautious when filling out a Mieterselbstauskunft (tenant self-disclosure form), ensuring you only provide this information after confirming the legitimacy of the rental.

What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed?

• Report It: Inform the police and file a complaint. They might not recover the money, but it can prevent others from falling victim.

• Contact the Platform: If you found the listing through a platform like WG-Gesucht, report the scam to their customer service team so they can block the scammer.

• Talk to Your University: Many German universities offer support services for international students related to Student Accommodation in Germany. They can help guide you through legal processes or help you find alternative housing.

Final Thoughts: Stay Smart, Stay Safe

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it hard to find accommodation in Germany? Yes, especially in major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt, where demand for rental properties often exceeds supply. Start your search early and use trusted platforms to increase your chances.

2. How do you know if someone is scamming you for a house? Common signs include pressure for advance payments, a deal that seems too good to be true, refusal to show the apartment in person, or communication that feels vague or unprofessional. Always verify details and visit the property before paying.

3. Is Germany in a housing crisis? Yes, many cities are experiencing a housing shortage due to high demand, leading to increased rental prices and competition, especially in urban areas.

4. How do I know if he's a scammer? Red flags include asking for upfront payments, refusing to meet in person, using fake or copy-pasted photos, and not allowing viewings. Scammers also often communicate from outside the country.

5. Can a scammer be traced? In some cases, scammers can be traced, but it depends on the type of scam and how payments were made. Reporting the scam to authorities is important, but recovery of money is not always guaranteed.

6. Is it bad if a scammer has my address? Yes, providing your personal address to a scammer can lead to identity theft or further attempts to defraud you. Always be cautious with sharing sensitive information.

7. What is the most common crime in Germany? Property crimes, such as theft and fraud, are the most common crimes in Germany, especially in urban areas.

8. Do banks refund scammed money in Germany? If the scam involved fraudulent transactions, some banks may offer refunds, but this is not guaranteed. Always contact your bank immediately if you suspect fraud.

9. Which German city has the highest rent? Munich consistently has the highest rent prices in Germany, followed closely by Frankfurt and Berlin.

10. Which city in Germany has the cheapest rent? Cities in eastern Germany, like Chemnitz and Leipzig, typically offer the cheapest rent in the country.

11. Which city has the highest crime rate in Germany? Frankfurt often ranks highest in overall crime rates, although many of these are non-violent offences like property and financial crimes.