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Rental Scam Stories & Protection

Learn from real experiences and protect yourself from rental scams in Germany. These stories help you identify red flags and stay safe while searching for apartments.

Stay Alert - Scammers Are Active!

Rental scams are unfortunately common in Germany's competitive housing market. Learn to spot the warning signs and protect yourself.

🚨 The "Too Good to Be True" Apartment

Cologne September 2025 €400/month claimed

Student Sarah's Story: "I found a beautiful 2-bedroom apartment in Cologne city center for only €400/month. The landlord claimed he was traveling and needed to rent it urgently."

Red Flags Identified:

  • Price significantly below market rate
  • Landlord claimed to be traveling/abroad
  • Demanded deposit before viewing
  • Poor German/English in communications
  • Only communicated via email

Outcome: Sarah wisely refused to send money without viewing. Later discovered the same photos were used in multiple fake listings across different cities.

Money Lost: €0 (Smart decision!)

⚠️ The Fake Viewing Scam

Berlin August 2025 €150 viewing fee

Professional Mark's Experience: "A 'property manager' requested €150 upfront for a viewing, claiming it was to cover administration costs and ensure serious applicants only."

Red Flags Identified:

  • Requested payment before viewing
  • No official company registration
  • Generic email address (not company domain)
  • Pressure to pay immediately
  • No physical office address

Outcome: Mark paid the fee but the "property manager" disappeared. The apartment address didn't exist.

Money Lost: €150

✅ Success Story: How SichrPlace Protected Anna

Munich September 2025 Protected

Anna's Safe Experience: "I was looking for a student apartment in Munich and found SichrPlace. They verified everything before I even saw the listing."

SichrPlace Protection Features Used:

  • Landlord Verification: All landlords are identity-verified
  • Property Authentication: Photos and documents verified
  • Secure Payments: No direct money transfers to strangers
  • Professional Viewing Service: Our team conducted the viewing
  • Digital Contract: Legal, secure contract process

Outcome: Anna found her perfect apartment through SichrPlace's secure platform and moved in safely.

Money Saved from Scams: Potentially hundreds of euros

How to Protect Yourself

Research First

Always verify the landlord's identity and check if the property really exists. Use Google Street View to verify addresses.

Never Pay Before Viewing

Legitimate landlords never ask for money before you've seen the apartment. Always insist on viewing first.

Use Verified Platforms

Use platforms like SichrPlace that verify landlords and properties. Avoid dealing with unverified individuals.

Meet in Person

Always meet the landlord or authorized agent in person. Video calls can be helpful but not sufficient alone.

Check Legal Documents

Verify ownership documents, rental license, and ensure contracts are in proper German legal format.

Get Second Opinions

Ask friends, use student forums, or consult housing services at your university for advice.

Found a Scam? Report It!

Help protect others by reporting suspected scams to sichrplace@gmail.com or local authorities.

Contact our support team →