How it works
How Housetective works.
Paste a rental conversation, get scam signals, and follow guided next steps before you pay.
Step 1
Find a property you like.
Browse rental platforms such as Funda, Pararius, or Kamernet. When you talk to a landlord, copy the message or listing.
Step 2
Upload a landlord message or listing.
Drop in chats, emails, or listing details you had with the landlord, and we pick up the key context instantly.
Upload
Select a file to share
Import an SVG, PNG, JPG, TXT or PDF file (max. 5MB)
Step 3
We flag scam signals.
Payment pressure, unverifiable identity, vague viewing plans, called out in plain language.
L
Landlord
last seen 12:42
•••
Scam signals0
Step 4
See your score and signals.
See the red flags we found, with a clear explanation of each signal and practical guidance on what to do next.
Score
Signals4
Advice5
Step 5
Follow the next-steps checklist.
Verify identity, schedule a viewing, confirm contract terms, and pay safely.
Checklist
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Upload screenshots, images, PDFs, Word documents, or text files from a listing or landlord conversation. The tool looks for risk signals across language, payment requests, and missing verification details.
The scam score is a risk signal tool, not a guarantee. Ownership and Chamber of Commerce checks are based on accurate registry data when available, but you should still verify the address, identity, and viewing independently.
Yes. Shield is free and includes unlimited quick risk checks. Create an account to use Shield in your dashboard and keep your scan history.
No account is needed to use the conversation scan on the landing page, and you can use it as often as needed. Create an account to use Shield in your dashboard, save your history, or choose a paid verification plan.
You’ll sign in or create an account, complete Stripe checkout, and get scan credits in your dashboard.
Most scans finish in under a minute. Larger files or images may take longer.
Uploaded files are used to process the scan. For signed-in users, we save the scan result and report details so you can review them later in your dashboard.
Yes. Shield includes unlimited quick risk checks, so you can check as many listings or conversations as needed.
Do not send money or ID. Ask for a viewing, verify the address, and insist on a proper lease before paying.
Yes. In the Netherlands, Housetective offers a physical inspection option for renters who want an on-site property check with photos, videos, and landlord or property verification.
Yes. Shield is available worldwide, so you can run it outside the Netherlands. Verified and Inspect are currently focused on the Netherlands, and we’re working on expanding them.