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Virginia Tech warns of housing scam

From: Virginia Tech, Off-Campus Housing Office

Virginia Tech has received word of complaints regarding scams that target students and landlords via email and public websites. The Virginia Tech Off-Campus Housing office reminds students, faculty, and staff to be wary of rental opportunities you may find on websites that urge you to lease a vacant space sight unseen. Never be tempted to rent an apartment without first viewing it.

If you find ads on public web sites of this nature, please report it to the Fraud Information Center at http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/Internet_Fraud.shtml

Apartment scams have always existed, but with advances in technology and greater access to information, con artists have become more savvy about finding ways to cheat you out of your money. However, by proceeding with caution, you can steer clear of the pitfalls that arise with renting.

Always Use Caution

Scams can cost you money and time. Look for the following signs which may lead to scams:

• If the landlord renting the property says he is out of the country and needs the money wired to him before meeting in person, refrain from doing business with him.
• Always get a written lease, the keys, and make the first payment at the same time.
• Don’t pay before receiving confirmation of the rent. Meet the landlord in person before giving any payment. If the landlord is serious about renting his apartment, he will make the effort to show interested renters the property himself.
• Verify identity and residence of the landlord with proof of identification.
• Verify the location and the condition of the property in person. Always fully investigate the location and its upkeep.
• Never wire money overseas.
• A lease is a legal document that you are formally bound to after signing.

Be sure to do the following before signing a lease:

• Read over the entire document before signing.
• Ask questions about clauses and terms you don’t understand.
• Any changes or additions agreed upon with the landlord should be stated in the lease before signing.
• Make sure all parties involved sign the lease.
• Date and make copies for your records.

Sample leases and subleases are available in the Virginia Tech Off-Campus Housing office, 121 Squires Student Center, http://www.uusa.vt.edu/VTOCH/index.php, vtoch@vt.edu, 540/231.3466. Office hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Help is also available through Student Legal Services at Virginia Tech, 143 Squires Student Center, 540/231.4720.

More Campus Notices