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10 Proven Ways to Avoid Rental Scams in Ontario (and What to Do If You’re Targeted)
Understanding Rental Scams in Ontario
What Are Rental Scams?
Rental scams occur when fraudsters pose as legitimate landlords or property managers to trick people into sending deposits or personal information for rental properties that either don’t exist or aren’t actually available. They prey on renters’ urgency—especially in competitive housing markets like Ontario.
Why Ontario Has Become a Hotspot for Rental Scammers
Ontario’s rising housing demand has made it a prime target for rental fraud. With tight supply in cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton, scammers take advantage of renters eager to secure an affordable home quickly. Online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, and Craigslist, while convenient, have become common grounds for fake listings.
Common Victims and Their Stories
Newcomers, students, and first-time renters are often the most vulnerable. Many have lost thousands of dollars in fake deposits or had their identities stolen through fraudulent application forms. One Toronto student reported losing $1,500 after paying for a unit that didn’t exist—only realizing the scam when she arrived at the “address.”
Most Common Types of Rental Scams in Ontario
Fake Listings and Duplicate Ads
Scammers often copy legitimate listings from other websites and repost them with slightly lower prices to attract attention. When you contact them, they pressure you to pay a deposit before you can view the property.
Phantom Rentals and Non-Existent Properties
These scams involve ads for properties that don’t exist or aren’t available for rent. The scammer typically avoids in-person meetings and claims to be “out of town.”
Deposit Fraud and Fake Landlords
Fraudsters may claim to be landlords who need a deposit up front to “hold” the property. Once you send the money, they disappear.
Identity Theft During Rental Applications
Many scams involve fake rental application forms designed to steal your personal data—such as your SIN, ID, or banking information—for identity theft.
How to Spot a Rental Scam Before It’s Too Late
Red Flags to Watch Out For in Rental Listings
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Rent that’s significantly below market value.
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No photos or generic stock images.
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Landlords who refuse to meet in person.
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Pressure to act “immediately.”
Signs That a “Landlord” Might Be a Scammer
If the person avoids video calls, requests payment through wire transfer or cryptocurrency, or asks for personal documents early on, be cautious.
How to Verify Rental Legitimacy Using Official Tools
Use Ontario’s Land Registry or MPAC (Municipal Property Assessment Corporation) to confirm property ownership. You can also check local zoning records or contact the building’s management directly.
10 Smart Ways to Avoid Rental Scams in Ontario
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Always Visit the Property in Person.
Never rent unseen. A legitimate landlord will allow a viewing before any commitment.
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Never Send Money Before Signing a Lease.
Deposits should be paid only after authenticity is confirmed.
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Use Trusted Rental Platforms.
Sites like Realtor.ca, Rentals.ca, Drewloholdings.com and Zumper vet listings more thoroughly.
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Research the Landlord and Property Ownership.
Ask for ID and verify through Ontario’s Land Registry.
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Watch for Unrealistic Prices.
If the rent seems too good to be true, it probably is.
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Avoid Paying in Cash or Cryptocurrency.
Use traceable payment methods, such as e-transfer or cheques.
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Get Everything in Writing.
Ensure the lease includes clear terms and conditions.
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Read the Lease Carefully.
Check for inconsistencies, fake addresses, or illegal clauses.
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Consult Ontario’s Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).
Their website provides official rental guidelines and legal protection tips.
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Report Suspicious Listings Immediately.
Notify the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) or the platform where the ad appeared.
What to Do If You’re Targeted by a Rental Scam in Ontario
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Stop communicating with the Scammer immediately.
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Gather All Evidence—emails, texts, payment records, screenshots.
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Report the Incident to your local police and the CAFC (1-888-495-8501).
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Contact Your Bank to block transactions and issue fraud alerts.
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Warn Others by reporting the listing online and sharing your experience in local renter groups.