Renter safety checklist
FieRent does not inspect properties, verify landlords or hold rent or deposits. Use this checklist every time, before you pay anyone.
Warning signs
- Asked to pay before you have seen the property
- Rent far lower than similar homes nearby
- Pressure to decide or pay straight away
- Owner or agent will not meet, show the property or share their details
- Asked to pay into an account whose name does not match the owner
1. Inspect the property in person
- View the exact room or home before you pay anything. Never pay to view.
- Take a friend or relative, and tell someone where you are going.
- Check water, electricity, the roof, locks, security and the surroundings. Ask current neighbours or tenants about the place.
- Make sure what you see matches the photos and description. Photos on FieRent do not prove who owns a property.
2. Confirm the landlord has the right to rent it out
- Ask to meet the owner, or for written proof that the person renting it out is allowed to do so.
- If you deal with an agent or caretaker, ask for the owner's written authority and speak to the owner yourself.
- Be careful if the owner is 'abroad' and everything is handled by someone else, or if they refuse to meet or show the property.
- Ask neighbours or the caretaker who the owner is, and whether the property is really available.
3. Confirm who you are paying
- Pay only after you have viewed the property and are satisfied about who the owner or authorised agent is.
- Check that the name on the MoMo or bank account matches the person you met and checked.
- Do not pay a third party, a 'booking' fee or a 'viewing' fee, and do not be rushed. Real homes do not disappear in an hour.
- FieRent does not hold or handle rent or deposits. Payments between you and the landlord or agent are your responsibility.
4. Get the terms in writing
- Ask for a written tenancy agreement that names the landlord and you, the property, the rent, the advance, the period and who pays for utilities and repairs.
- Read it before you sign, and keep a signed copy.
- Check the rent against what is typical for the area on our rent price guide. A price far below it is a warning sign.
- Read our guide to renter rights, and ask a lawyer or the Rent Control Department if you are unsure.
5. Keep receipts for every payment
- Get a written receipt showing the date, amount, what it is for, and the names and signatures of both sides.
- Keep MoMo or bank confirmation messages as well.
- Do not hand over cash without a receipt.
This is general guidance, not legal advice, and following it does not guarantee a safe transaction.