Avoid Rental Scams: Key Tips

Regarding the case of "Mei Cheng Apartment Limited" using the social platform "Little Red Book" for fraud being exposed, the company required tenants to pay deposits or a full year's rent without personally viewing the property, then disappeared, involving amounts as high as 1.5 million Hong Kong dollars. Recently, another former real estate agent impersonated a "second landlord," bypassing the real estate company to sign fake leases with tenants and embezzle the rent. Fraud methods are constantly evolving, and rental scams are not uncommon. Therefore, tenants should be more vigilant to avoid becoming victims. Here are some suggestions to prevent such frauds:

1. Verify the identity of the agent

When dealing with an agent, it is important to verify whether they hold a valid real estate agent license. You can inquire about the agent's information, including their license number and validity period, through the Estate Agents Authority to ensure their legal identity. The search steps can be found by clicking this link.
(Image／Taken from the "Guide to Renting for Non-local Students in Hong Kong" booklet on the Estate Agents Authority's official website)

2. On-site Property Viewing

Do not rely solely on online information; you should personally visit the property to check it out and confirm the leasing conditions. Without the assistance of a real estate agent, tenants can verify the current condition of the property through friends and family or online platforms.

3. Verify Owner Identity and Property Information

Do not make any payment before confirming the owner's identity and the actual condition of the property. The Inland Revenue Department has stated that it does not verify the identity involved in the "stamping" of leases or the content of leases. This policy loophole allows fraudsters to use fake leases for scams. Tenants should check the Land Registry to verify the owner's identity and whether there are any legal disputes.

4. Special Attention to Mortgage Properties and Government-Regulated Properties

Owners of mortgaged properties must obtain bank approval before renting them out. Without approval, tenants may face the risk of having to move out in a short period. There are strict regulations for renting out public rental housing and subsidized sale flats, and it is necessary to ensure compliance with government requirements.
(Photo / taken from the Estate Agents Authority official website)