Calgary police warn of ‘rental scam’ after two lose deposit for same home

A “rental scam” that involves making a deposit to reserve a suite is under investigation by Calgary police after two victims paid to see the same property, and the landlord failed to show.

Officers say an incident on July 2 saw a victim head to a home on Benson Road NW after they arranged to view a basement suite seemingly available for rent.

Before attending, police believe that the victim made a deposit to the alleged landlord via e-transfer in exchange for holding the place.

When the victim arrived, another person was there who also made a deposit to the same landlord via e-transfer with the hopes of holding the same place.

Police then say the two discovered the rightful owner did not post the ad after nobody showed up to host a viewing, concluding that the ad was fake.

Then, the alleged landlord cut communication off with the two victims and deleted the online ad.

Investigators believe the same suspect has multiple ads posted online for similar properties in various communities across the city.

As a result, officers are asking Calgarians to be vigilant when responding to online rental ads and provide the following tips:

• Only deal with local landlords. Refusing to meet in person could be a red flag.
• Ask to do a walk-through of the property with the landlord so you can document the condition of the property before moving in.
• Be suspicious if a landlord is urging you to pay any amount of money prior to seeing the property.
• Research the average rental rates in the area and be suspicious if the rate is significantly lower.
• Officers say not to give out personal information, such as social insurance numbers, bank accounts, or credit card numbers.

Police ask anyone with information about this rental scam or similar incidents to call them at 403-266-1234 or leave a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.