Booking student accommodation online before arriving in the UK can be convenient, but it also comes with risks. International students are increasingly targeted by housing scams, including fake listings, fraudulent landlords, and payment traps.
By the end of this guide, you will understand:
How to identify common student housing scams
The steps to follow for secure online bookings
Which platforms and documents protect you legally
Why Housing Scams Are a Growing Concern for International Students
International students are particularly vulnerable to scams due to unfamiliarity with UK rental laws, pressure to secure accommodation quickly, and language barriers. According to the UK’s National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB), students lost over £1 million to rental scams in 2023 alone, with average losses ranging between £1,000 and £1,500 per victim.
Common Types of UK Student Housing Scams
Recognising scam patterns is essential to avoid them. The most frequent types include:
1. Fake Listings on Classified Sites
Photos of attractive properties are copied from legitimate sources.
Prices are significantly lower than the market average.
Deposits are demanded before any viewing.
2. Non-Existent Landlords or Agents
The landlord is usually "abroad" or unavailable.
Communication is limited to email or instant messaging.
Immediate deposit requests are made to secure the room.
3. Identity Theft Scams
Scammers request passport scans, bank details, or visa documents.
These are used for financial fraud or blackmail.
4. Advance Fee Fraud
Multiple fees, such as viewing, reservation, and administration fees, are requested upfront.
No actual booking or viewing follows the payment.
How to Safely Book Student Housing Online: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Use a Verified Platform
Choose a well-established student accommodation website like StudentTenant.com, which offers:
Verified landlords and property listings
Partnerships with UK universities
Secure online payment systems
Video viewings and uploadable tenancy agreements
Step 2: Verify Property Details Before Payment
Before making any payment:
Request a virtual or live video tour
Confirm the full property address and verify it on Google Maps
Cross-reference listings across multiple platforms
Step 3: Avoid Untraceable Payment Methods
Only pay using:
Credit or debit cards
Bank accounts held by verified UK letting agents or companies
Avoid payments via cryptocurrency or personal bank accounts.
Step 4: Read the Tenancy Agreement Carefully
Ensure the agreement includes:
Full rental details and contract duration
Deposit protection under government-backed schemes:
MyDeposits
Deposit Protection Service (DPS)
Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS)
Prescribed Information and the government-issued "How to Rent" guide
Step 5: Choose Student-Friendly Listings
International students should look for listings that mention:
No UK guarantor required
Flexible lease terms (6 to 12 months)
International student-friendly policies
Red Flags to Watch Out For
What to Do If You Suspect a Scam
Cease all communication with the suspected scammer.
Report the incident to Action Fraud.
Contact your bank immediately to halt or reverse the transaction.
Notify your university’s international student support office.
Report the listing to the platform or search engine hosting it.
Conclusion: Stay Informed and Protected
Booking UK student accommodation online is secure if done correctly. Stick with platforms like Student Tenant, validate listings, and follow verified steps. By applying the advice in this guide, you can avoid scams and secure a comfortable home for your studies.
Ready to find a verified student home?
Book a free consultation with a StudentTenant expert today.