Scams and fraud

Where there is scarcity, there are scammers. Unfortunately, the Dutch rental market is a paradise for fraudsters. In 2025, more than 10,000 reports of rental scams were made. The average damage amount: €1,200. Some victims lose thousands of euros.

The 5 most common rental scams

Scam 1: The fake landlord
Someone posts an advertisement for a property that is not theirs. Photos are stolen from Funda or Pararius. The 'landlord' asks for a deposit to be transferred in advance and then disappears. This is by far the most common scam. How to recognize: the 'landlord' cannot show proof of ownership, communicates only via email, and insists on quick payment.