The Hon. Alexa N. H. Lightbourne, JP, MP, Minister of Home Affairs, issued a statement through the Ministry’s Consumer Affairs Section on a rise in online rental scams, urging residents to exercise caution when searching for or reviewing rental accommodation online.

Reports received by Consumer Affairs show that individuals posing as real estate agents, landlords, or property managers are using online platforms to post fraudulent rental listings. These listings often rely on stolen photographs and details copied from genuine properties. Prospective tenants are pressured to share personal information, copies of identification, banking details, or upfront deposits, frequently before any opportunity to view the property in person.

The Ministry confirms that these tactics are common signs of fraud and is advising residents to take practical steps to protect themselves. 

Consumer Affairs advises the public to:

• Treat unsolicited rental offers from unknown individuals with caution.
• Withhold money, deposits, wire transfers, gift cards, and banking information from unverified persons.
• Question listings priced well below market value.
• Request an in-person viewing in every case.
• Verify the identity of any landlord, property manager, or real estate agent before sharing personal information or making payment.
• Treat claims of being overseas, unavailable to meet, or any pressure to act quickly as cause for concern. 

Consumer Affairs also identifies the common warning signs of a likely rental scam:

• Requests for payment before a viewing.
• Refusal to meet in person.
• Contact limited to social media or messaging apps.
• Poorly written or inconsistent advertisements.
• Stock images or photographs copied from other websites.
• Early requests for sensitive personal information.

The Ministry encourages residents to keep records of all correspondence, advertisements, receipts, and payment transactions related to any rental inquiry. Where something appears suspicious, residents should stop communicating, then independently verify the listing before taking any further step. 

Consumers are reminded that under the Rent Increases (Domestic Premises) Control Act 1978, certain residential properties in Bermuda remain subject to rent control. Prospective tenants should understand their rights and the terms of any tenancy agreement before signing, and should not rely on online advertisements alone when making housing decisions.

Minister Lightbourne said, “No resident should lose money or peace of mind while trying to secure a home, and the Ministry will keep raising awareness, supporting those who have been harmed, and protecting consumers from these dishonest practices. If something does not feel right, stop, verify the listing, and seek guidance before you proceed.”

Anyone who believes they may have encountered a rental scam should contact Consumer Affairs to report suspicious activity by calling 297-7627, emailing consumers@gov.bm, or visiting www.consumeraffairs.bm.