Surge in Rental Frauds Sweeping South Africa

In South Africa, rental scams are on the rise, with fraudsters employing more sophisticated tactics to target both tenants and landlords. Fitzanne Estates reports that cases of rental fraud have dramatically increased in 2025, leaving victims financially ruined and with few options for recourse.

One of the most common types of online scams involves criminals posting fraudulent property listings or impersonating legitimate agents. Many unsuspecting tenants find themselves coerced into paying deposits and rent for properties that either do not exist or are already occupied.

Landlords are also vulnerable to scams, with fraudsters posing as tenants who then default on their rent or sublet the properties to multiple unsuspecting individuals before disappearing.

How fraudsters operate

Typical fraudulent rental scams follow a predictable pattern. Scammers promote appealing rental properties at prices below market value to attract potential tenants. Once there is interest, they pressure tenants to pay deposits and advance rent before they even see the property.

Victims often only realize they have been scammed when the perpetrator vanishes with their funds.

These fraudsters also impersonate real estate agents, leveraging professional-looking emails and fake credentials to build trust. Some even arrange property viewings using stolen keys or renting short-term accommodations to enhance their appearance of legitimacy.

Landlords face similar risks. Some scammers provide fake income proof and references to secure leases, only to later default on payments. Others rent out the property illegally to multiple tenants, collecting rent from several individuals before fleeing.

“Fraudsters are becoming increasingly creative, and it’s now easier than ever to be duped into paying a deposit for a non-existent rental property,” warns Pearl Scheltema, CEO of Fitzanne Estates.

The impact of rental fraud

The financial ramifications of rental scams can be severe. For tenants, the loss of a deposit or advance rent payment can reach tens of thousands of rands, leaving them unable to find alternative housing.

Landlords, on the other hand, may face significant financial and legal challenges due to unpaid rent and disputes with fraudulent tenants.

“Scams not only lead to financial losses but also create emotional turmoil for victims who find themselves in desperate need of alternatives at the last moment,” Scheltema adds. “Thus, due diligence is essential for both tenants and landlords.”

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Steps to protect against rental scams

Fitzanne Estates advises tenants to confirm that they are dealing with a legitimate estate agent by checking their registration with the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA). Tenants should remain cautious of agents or landlords who refuse in-person meetings, demand upfront payments prior to property viewings, or provide inconsistent details about the property.

Landlords must also conduct thorough vetting of potential tenants. Background checks, verification of employment history, and assessment of financial stability can help prevent leasing to fraudulent tenants.

Fitzanne Estates offers property management services that feature detailed tenant screenings and legally sound lease agreements to protect landlords.

The Landlords Association of South Africa (LASA) has cautioned that rising financial pressures and a limited housing supply create an environment conducive to scams. The organization urges both landlords and tenants to exercise vigilance when signing lease agreements and to recognize red flags that may indicate fraudulent activities.

The role of professional letting agencies

A professional long-term letting agency ensures a structured and legally compliant rental process, significantly reducing the risk of fraud. These agencies confirm property listings, securely manage trust account deposits, and ensure tenants are thoroughly screened before moving in.

“We’re not just here to facilitate transactions — we’re here to protect both parties,” says Scheltema. “Renting a property should be an enjoyable and positive experience, not a stressful ordeal filled with uncertainty and risk.”

Listen/read: Property scams: How to spot and avoid them

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