Student rental scams: how to avoid them
Off-site students searching for a home remotely are a favourite target of rental scams: listings with copied photos, landlords "abroad" asking for a deposit in advance, prices too good to be true.
These rules apply to any listing, including those on the moderated Studenti Rovigo board.
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Golden rules
- Never pay a deposit or advance before seeing the property and the contract.
- Be wary of prices far below the area and of anyone rushing you.
- Check the listing photos with a reverse image search.
- Only pay by traceable bank transfer, never in cash or with top-up cards.
- Refuse unregistered contracts: without registration you have no protection and no tax deduction.
Where to report a scam
If you think you have found a fake listing, do not pay and report it to the online Police office (commissariatodips.it). If the listing is on Studenti Rovigo, also use the report button.
Frequently asked questions
How do I spot a fake rental listing?
A price far below the area, pressure to close, a deposit request before the visit and photos that appear in other listings are the most common signs.
Can I pay a deposit before seeing the flat?
No. Never pay a deposit or advance before seeing the property and the contract.
How do I check listing photos?
With a reverse image search: if the same photos appear in other listings or cities, the listing is suspicious.
Where do I report a rental scam in Italy?
On the online Police office website, commissariatodips.it, or at the Polizia di Stato.
Is an unregistered lease valid?
Leases must be registered within 30 days: refuse unregistered contracts, as they leave you with no protection and no tax deduction.
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