Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador — September 26, 2024 — RCMP are alerting residents to a rental scam circulating in Gander, where a fraudulent online listing nearly tricked prospective tenants.
Rental Scam Targets Gander Residents
Police were alerted after a homeowner began receiving inquiries about a property purportedly for rent—a listing they never authorized.
- RCMP are investigating a rental scam in Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador.
- The scam involved a fake online listing for a property not actually available for rent.
- No financial losses have been reported to date, but police are urging caution.
- Renters should verify listings and avoid paying deposits before viewing a property.
The homeowner contacted authorities after multiple individuals showed up at the property, expecting to view a rental advertised online. Someone had posted a listing for the home without the owner’s consent, attempting to defraud potential renters. While no one has reported losing money yet, the RCMP are proactively warning the public about this emerging threat.
Protecting Yourself From Rental Scams
The RCMP offered several tips to help renters avoid falling victim to similar schemes. A common red flag is a rental price significantly below market value. Another warning sign is a request for a deposit or other payment *before* a rental agreement is signed or the property is viewed.
A: Always verify the property exists, request additional photos if the listing is sparse, and never send money before seeing the property and signing a lease. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Police strongly recommend prospective renters personally visit any property they are considering. If a listing only includes exterior photos, request additional images from the advertiser to confirm the interior condition and ensure the property matches the description.
Anyone who believes they have encountered a fraudulent rental listing or have been victimized by a scam is encouraged to contact the RCMP immediately.
What should you do if you suspect a rental scam? Report it to the authorities. Don’t hesitate to contact the RCMP if something feels off about a rental listing or a potential landlord.
