How to spot and avoid rental scams in the Netherlands (2025)

Renting a home or apartment in the Netherlands can be an exciting step. However, rental scams are unfortunately common, especially in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague. Whether you're an expat, international student, or simply new to the Dutch rental market, this guide will help you identify scams, verify landlords, and protect yourself from financial loss.

Most common rental scams in the Netherlands

The scammer makes legitimate-looking messages with cleverly hidden warning signs. The strategy is easy: get students to send money without verifying the property. These types of messages are likely to:

• Create urgency by claiming other renters are interested.
• Give excuses for not meeting in person, such as being abroad.
• Reference well-known platforms like Airbnb to seem credible.
• Demand deposits upfront before allowing a viewing.

Here are some real examples of scam messages found in circulation:

1. The fake airbnb listing scam
2. The ‘son’s apartment’ excuse
3. The ‘refundable security deposit’ trick
4. The “unavailable viewing” scam
5. Fake listings on legitimate platforms

Example 1: The fake airbnb listing scam

"Appreciate the quick reply. The flat is for a long-term let and is exactly as in the images. We shall have a normal contract. You will get a completed residence registration form with signature by myself. Registration in the address is possible.

As I indicated in my previous email, I live in London and will travel to show the apartment to you and sign the lease agreement. After I moved to London, we started leasing the apartment on Airbnb.com, but it has been a really tough time for me to come often and check everything, so I decided to lease the apartment for extended periods. Airbnb provides an online platform to connect hosts with guests who are interested in leasing such accommodations. I have been a member of Airbnb since 2022 with good reviews.

As in any other Airbnb booking, they will take the payment and only make it available to me after you have checked in. In the unlikely event that the apartment does not meet your expectations, you can cancel the booking and get a full refund.

After you confirm the booking and payment to Airbnb, I will come as soon as possible back to sort out the lease. I use Airbnb because the owner of the property is covered by Airbnb policies."

Alarm bells:

• No legitimate Airbnb listing requires payment outside of the platform.
• The scammer creates a false sense of security by referencing Airbnb policies.
• The promise of a refund is fake, as the payment will go directly to the scammer.

Avoid the scam. Here’s what you should do:
Scammers replicate Airbnb’s website to make their scheme appear legitimate, but if you search for the property on the actual Airbnb platform, you won’t find it.

Example 2: The ‘son’s apartment’ excuse

"I bought it for my son when he was in college, but now that he returned home after graduating, I thought I would rent it out. We live in Madrid, Spain, and you can rent it as long as you want; nobody will disturb you. I require a deposit of one month's rent (€1,050) and the security deposit (€1,050), a total of €2,100.

Due to travel restrictions, I cannot travel to take you around to view the apartment in person, hence handover can be rented only through Airbnb. I would like to know a little about you before we go any further: how many individuals you will be staying with in the flat?

We will go ahead if you are interested, but please indicate clearly only if you are interested."

Alarm bells:

• The ‘out of the country’ excuse prevents an in-person visit.
• The request for a large upfront payment before viewing.
• The use of Airbnb’s name to add credibility without an actual Airbnb listing.

Avoid the scam. Here’s what you should do:
Never send money to a landlord you haven’t met or before viewing the property; if you’re unable to attend in person, have a trusted third party inspect it for you.

Example 3: The ‘refundable security deposit’ trick

"Nice to hear from you with all your information. I would be delighted to have a tenant such as yourself. Before I come all the way from Stratford or reserve the flat for you, I must be sure about your willingness and financial capability to pay.

I would rather have all done on the same day that I go to The Hague for viewing and handing over the keys. Therefore, if you are prepared to rent and book the flat for your date, you have to go through the contract form. If the terms suit you, you will then fill the required field and sign. Pay a refundable security deposit via bank transfer so that it is simple to get back if you subsequently change your mind about taking the flat after seeing it.

Once we determine paid, then we can make arrangements for possible viewing time. In the event of any changes in accepting the flat after viewing, you will be refunded your deposit back. Kindly confirm if you are okay with the arrangements so that I can forward the copy of the tenancy agreement for you to review."

‍Alarm bells:

• Legitimate landlords do not require deposits before viewings.
• The ‘same-day handover’ excuse pressures the tenant into making quick decisions.
• Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pushing you to make quick decisions without proper verification.

Avoid the scam. Here’s what you should do:
Never pay a deposit before viewing the property under any circumstances, as you may arrive only to find that it doesn’t exist or no one is there; if you're unsure, ask a third party to verify the legal owner.

Example 4: The “unavailable viewing” scam

"Thank you for your interest. Unfortunately, I’m currently abroad and unable to show the apartment in person. But don’t worry, I’ve already had many people stay in this place and it’s exactly like the pictures.

If you are really interested, we can proceed with the booking and paperwork online. I’ll send you the lease contract, and once I receive the first month’s rent and deposit, I will courier the keys to your address.

I’ve done this before without issues, and it saves time for both of us. If you’re not happy when you move in, I’ll refund you fully within 48 hours. Let me know if I can count on you to proceed, there are others interested too."

‍Alarm bells:

• The landlord refuses to allow an in-person or video viewing.
• There is pressure to act quickly because "others are interested."
• Promises of a refund are meaningless if the listing is fake or the landlord disappears.

Avoid the scam. Here’s what you should do:
Always view the property in person or have someone you trust do it for you. If the landlord is unavailable or offers excuses, consider it a red flag, especially if they ask for money first.

Example 5: Fake listings on legitimate platforms

"Hi there,

I saw your request and I’m happy to offer you this newly renovated flat. The location is ideal, and the apartment comes fully furnished, with all utilities included. It’s perfect for expats or international students.

You found the listing on Facebook, but I manage it privately now to avoid agency fees. I’ll send you the contract and keys directly once you transfer the deposit to secure it. I’ve had many satisfied tenants before.

Please act quickly, the apartment is in high demand and I’m prioritizing serious tenants who are ready to move in soon."

‍Alarm bells:

• The listing appeared on a real website, but the conversation quickly moves to private email or WhatsApp.
• The landlord claims to avoid official channels to "save fees."
• There's no way to verify the apartment ownership or confirm it still exists on the platform.

Avoid the scam. Here’s what you should do:
Only communicate through official platforms like Pararius, Kamernet, or Funda until you've verified the landlord and seen the place. Be suspicious of anyone asking for payment via email or trying to move the deal off-platform.

Don’t turn house hunting into a nightmare

Finding an affordable rental that ticks all your boxes can be exciting, but don’t let that excitement cloud your judgment. Scammers prey on hopeful renters who are eager to secure a great deal. A little caution can go a long way in protecting yourself from rental fraud. Take the time to verify listings, research landlords, and follow safe rental practices.

Try housetective's Protection+ Package. Avoid rental scams within 24 hours.

Got offered a room or appartment but are unsure if the offer is legitimate? Verify the rental within 24 hours and get clear, reliable insights to protect yourself from rental scammers before making any commitments. Stay safe, stay informed, and rent with confidence.