{"id":3110,"date":"2023-09-07T12:32:03","date_gmt":"2023-09-07T12:32:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/apieceofswitzerland.ch\/?p=3110"},"modified":"2023-09-07T12:32:03","modified_gmt":"2023-09-07T12:32:03","slug":"protecting-yourself-from-apartment-rental-scams-in-switzerland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/apieceofswitzerland.ch\/protecting-yourself-from-apartment-rental-scams-in-switzerland\/","title":{"rendered":"Protecting Yourself from Apartment Rental Scams in Switzerland"},"content":{"rendered":"

Protecting Yourself from Apartment Rental Scams in Switzerland<\/h1>\n

When hunting for rental apartments in Switzerland, it’s crucial to be vigilant against online housing scams. Whether you’re relocating for work or study, not everything is as it seems, and some individuals are out to deceive rather than assist. Here are five key strategies to shield yourself from housing scams in Switzerland:<\/h3>\n
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  1. Never Sign a Rental Contract Without a Property Inspection<\/u><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Never succumb to pressure and sign a rental contract before personally viewing the property or having a trusted representative do so for you. Scammers often use urgency as a tactic, claiming that other interested parties are waiting. Take the time to consider your decision and carefully review the contract.<\/p>\n

    Once you’ve signed a rental contract, you’re legally bound, so avoid unpleasant surprises by thoroughly inspecting the property, meeting the landlord, and reviewing the contract before committing. If you’re uncertain, it’s wise to seek legal counsel in Switzerland for contract review.<\/p>\n

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    1. Exercise Caution When Something Seems Too Good to Be True<\/u><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      Imagine stumbling upon an ideal Zurich apartment with shared amenities and a low monthly rent of 300 Swiss francs. While it may seem enticing, be prepared for a reality check. Such deals are typically too good to be true, especially in cities with high housing costs like Zurich. If it appears too good to be true, it’s likely a scam.<\/p>\n

      While affordable accommodations exist, exercise caution when the price seems unrealistically low for the location and features offered. If you’re unsure about pricing, research comparable properties in the area to gauge what’s reasonable.<\/p>\n

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      1. Avoid Sharing Your Passport and Beware of Requests for Personal Documents<\/u><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        If a prospective landlord can’t meet you in person and asks for a copy of their passport for identity verification, be cautious. Passports can be stolen or counterfeit. Never share your own passport or provide extensive personal information and documents like payslips or employment contracts. Scammers can use this information for identity theft.<\/p>\n

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        1. Verify Ownership Claims with Documentation<\/u><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          If you have doubts about a landlord’s property ownership, request documentation to confirm their claims. If they can’t provide these documents or claim they’re lost, it’s a red flag. Inquiring about property ownership and requesting access to ownership documents is a prudent step. Be wary if the “landlord” avoids phone conversations, as this could signal a fraudulent identity.<\/p>\n

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          1. Refrain from Paying Deposits to “Secure” the Property<\/u><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

            Never feel pressured to pay a rental deposit before inspecting the property and meeting the landlord. Be especially cautious if the landlord insists on international money transfers like Western Union or MoneyGram. Such transactions may result in your funds disappearing, and you may never hear from the “landlord” again.<\/p>\n

            Some scammers may attempt to prolong the deception by claiming they haven’t received your initial deposit, urging you to send it again. Avoid transferring money via an IBAN number, as this leaves you with no recourse to recover your funds. Cash payments are also challenging to trace, so steer clear of them.<\/p>\n

            By following these precautions, you can better safeguard yourself against apartment rental scams in Switzerland.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>