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Threshold Issues Advice for Rental Accommodation for Students Ahead of New Academic Year

Published: 15 Aug, 2024

Andrew Clinton, Threshold Advisor, Laura Harmon, ICOS Executive Director, and John-Mark McCafferty, Threshold CEO, pictured at the TU Dublin Grangegorman campus for the launch of the 'Scamwatch 2024' campaign. Photographer: Jason Clarke
Andrew Clinton, Threshold Advisor, Laura Harmon, ICOS Executive Director, and John-Mark McCafferty, Threshold CEO, pictured at the TU Dublin Grangegorman campus for the launch of the 'Scamwatch 2024' campaign. Photographer: Jason Clarke

National housing charity Threshold has partnered with the Irish Council for International Students (ICOS) and the Union of Students Ireland (USI) as part of its annual 'Scamwatch' campaign to raise awareness around fraudulent housing scams.

Threshold, ICOS and USI have the following advice for students when seeking housing for the new academic year:

The Do's and Don'ts to Avoid a Rental Scam

Do:

  1. Inspect the Property in Person: Whenever possible, visit the property in person and take a picture of the landlord's or letting agent's photo identification before making any payments. Avoid only relying on online photos or virtual tours.
  2. Do Use Secure Payment Methods: Use secure payment platforms or methods that offer you protection. Avoid making cash payments or transferring money directly to someone without verifying their identity, and always try to see the property in person before paying.
  1. Do Ask for a Contract: Request a written contract (also known as a license or tenancy agreement) that clearly explains the terms and conditions of the rental agreement, including rent amount, deposit and any additional fees.
  2. Do Trust Your Instincts: If something seems too good to be true, trust your instincts and investigate further before making any payment. Scammers will often try to rush you into making decisions, but take your time and do your research.
  3. Do Seek Advice: Threshold is happy to offer advice if you are unsure or suspicious about a property. Threshold is available from 9am to 9pm on our freephone helpline, 1800 454 454, or on webchat on our website, www.threshold.ie.

Don't:

  1. Don't Pay Upfront Without Verification: Avoid making any upfront payments or deposits before verifying the property and the landlord's identity. When viewing a property, take a photo of the landlord or letting agent's photo identification for extra security.
  2. Don't Rush into Decisions: Scammers often try to pressure you into making quick decisions. While it is difficult to find accommodation, do not feel pressured to skip any research you need to conduct.
  3. Don't Share Personal Information Online: Be careful about sharing personal information on public platforms, especially social media, where scammers often try to find potential victims.
  4. Don't Ignore Red Flags: Pay attention to red flags (suspicious situations), like exceptionally low rent, a landlord living abroad, foreign bank account details or inconsistent information.
  5. Don't Use Unsecured Payment Methods: Avoid using unsecured payment methods like wire transfers or cryptocurrency for rental transactions. Bank transfers are the preferred method to pay your deposit and rent.

For more information on the Scamwatch campaign, visit https://threshold.ie/advocacy-campaign/scamwatch/.