Rental scams in India have become increasingly sophisticated. Every year thousands lose money to fake listings, advance fraud, and ghost brokers. Here's how to protect yourself.
### 1. Advance Payment Scam
Landlord asks for 1–3 months' advance before you visit. Once you transfer, they disappear.
Rule: Never pay anything without physically visiting the property.
### 2. Fake Listing Scam
Real photos stolen from other platforms. Price is 30–50% below market. Owner refuses video calls.
Rule: Cross-verify address on Google Maps satellite view. Meet in person.
### 3. Ghost Broker Scam
Someone poses as a broker, collects a "token amount" upfront, then disappears.
Rule: On zero-brokerage platforms like Spaczo, you speak directly to owners — no brokers to scam you.
### 4. Double Deposit / Illegal Sublet Scam
You pay deposit to a "tenant" subletting illegally. When their lease ends, you're evicted and lose your deposit.
Rule: Always ask for electricity bill or property tax receipt in the owner's name.
### 5. Rent Agreement Fraud
Verbal terms differ from written contract. Sudden rent hikes after move-in.
Rule: Read every line before signing. Use Spaczo's free rent agreement generator — standard Indian legal format.
Stay safe. Rent smart at spaczo.com.
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