Guides · 8 min read

The Renter Safety Checklist for First-Time Expats

An end-to-end playbook for international renters: verify the listing, confirm the landlord, and keep payments secure.

Maya Rovers

Safety Lead

December 14, 2025

Moving abroad means juggling paperwork, timelines, and trust. This checklist helps you validate a rental from the first message to the final payment so you can move quickly without taking unnecessary risks.

Apartment building exterior in the Netherlands — Use live video and proof-of-ownership before sending deposits.

1) Validate the listing itself

Before you speak with anyone, verify the listing details and photos. Most scams can be detected by inconsistencies you can check in minutes.

Reverse-image search the main photos to catch copied listings.
Cross-check the address, rent, and availability on other platforms.
Look for missing details: registration, utilities, deposit terms, and viewing options.

2) Confirm the landlord identity

A real landlord can provide proof of ownership or authorization to rent. Ask for verification early so you don't waste time.

Request a proof-of-ownership document or agency agreement.
Ask for a video call walkthrough with the person who will sign the contract.
Check that names on ID match the contract and bank account.

Tip: If you are renting from abroad, ask for a live video walkthrough that includes the building entrance and street view.

3) Pressure, urgency, and payment traps

Scammers try to rush you into paying before verification. The safest path is to slow down, document everything, and pay only after contracts are signed.

Never pay a deposit before a signed contract is in place.
Avoid crypto, wire transfers, or payment links sent over chat apps.
Confirm the bank account is in the landlord or agency name.

4) Contract and registration basics

Read the contract line by line. Make sure the lease includes address, rental period, deposit amount, and registration terms.

Verify the address matches the listing and the landlord ID.
Check that the deposit is capped per local regulations.
Ask whether municipal registration is allowed.

5) Your final pre-payment checklist

You have a signed contract from the verified owner or agency.
You have seen the property in a live video or in person.
Payment goes to a matching, verified bank account.
All key details are documented in email or in the contract.

If anything feels off, pause and re-verify. Legitimate landlords expect questions and will provide the evidence you need to feel safe.

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