Islanders are being warned about potential scams that are targetting people desperate for a home.
The Isle of Wight Council has received reports of adverts posted on Facebook for rental properties that involve paying an up-front fee to view the property.
A spokesperson called the scam "worrying".
Trading Standards and the council's housing department are warning residents that no matter how desperate they are to find somewhere to live, never part with money for something that is free, such as viewing a property.
The properties advertised on Facebook may not be genuinely for rent, or photographs may have been taken from genuine letting websites without permission.
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Advice for renters
You will usually need to pay a deposit before you move in. If you are having difficulty paying this, contact the council's homelessness team about possible rent or deposit guarantee schemes.
If you have an assured shorthold tenancy, by law, your landlord has to put your deposit in a government approved tenancy deposit scheme. This will ensure that you get your deposit back as long as:
- you meet the terms of your tenancy agreement
- you don’t damage the property
- you pay your rent and bills
Your landlord or letting agent must put your deposit in the scheme within 30 days of getting it. This ensures that in the event of a dispute with your landlord, your deposit will be protected until the issue is sorted.
For more information about Assured Tenancy Deposit Schemes, visit: www.gov.uk/private-renting/deposits
More information is also available at: www.iow.gov.uk/Residents/Housing/Homeless-Section/Housing-Options-and-Advice1
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