Finding a place to live is exciting, but it's important to be aware of the latest scams. Fraudsters are now using sophisticated methods to target students, especially on social media. International students should be particularly wary of schemes designed to exploit the fact that you may not be able to view a property in person.

Common housing scams to avoid

The "discount" scam

You might be contacted via social media or messaging apps like WeChat, WhatsApp, or even Instagram. A scammer, posing as a housing provider, offers a significant discount on rent if you transfer a partial payment upfront. They may send a fake receipt, but the money is never delivered to the real landlord, and you lose your deposit.

Fake housing providers

These scammers create fake listings, complete with professional-looking websites and impressive photos, for properties that don't exist. Others may use photos and information from a real provider and pass it off as their own. Their goal is to pressure you into paying a deposit or rent to secure a non-existent room. Once you've paid, all communication stops.

Top tips to stay safe

1. Never trust unsolicited messages

Do not send money to a person or company you don't know, regardless of how good the offer sounds. Always verify their identity with a reliable, impartial source like SHU Accommodation Services or SU Advice.

2. View before you pay

This is the most crucial step. Never pay a holding deposit for a property you haven't seen in person. If you're an international student unable to travel, ask the provider if they offer a live video tour or have a trusted representative who can view it for you.

3. Book through official channels

The safest way to find housing is through SHU Accommodation Services or other verified, reputable platforms. All properties advertised with SHU Accommodation Services are part of the Snug student accommodation scheme, which ensures high quality and proper management. They offer various types of accommodation including University managed halls of residence, University partnership residences, and private sector housing.

4. Pay the provider directly

Avoid third-party rent payment services. Always ensure you are paying the official accommodation provider through their verified platform.

5. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is

Be cautious of deals that offer significant discounts, especially those that pressure you to act quickly.

Finding and booking your accommodation

When to start looking

Landlords in Sheffield often start advertising properties from December (sometimes even earlier!) for the following academic year. However, don't feel rushed! There is plenty of good quality student housing available.

Tenancy agreements are legally binding, even if booked online, so make sure you fully understand the contract you are entering into before you sign. This includes online bookings if you proceed to click through to 'sign' a contract online (this is sometimes called 'making a booking' or 'accepting an offer'). Please view our guidance on Tenancy Agreements for more information.

Even if you do not move in, do not pick up the keys, or do not pay a deposit, provide ID, or provide a guarantor's details - once you have signed, you are legally bound by the terms of the agreement. Sometimes the agreement will indicate that your room will be re-let if you don't move in, but this is just an option that the landlord/housing provider has - generally they do not do this, and instead your tenancy (contract) will persist.

If you have any questions about your tenancy contract or a booking, you can contact us at SU Advice for help.

Where to look

We strongly recommend looking for properties with SHU Accommodation Services. Their registered properties are part of the Snug scheme, a trusted partnership that guarantees safe and high-quality accommodation. You can also view a full list of Snug properties on the Sheffield City Council website under the 'Supporting information' section.

Support

If you have any questions or concerns about a booking you are considering making, or if you think you have been targeted by a scam, please contact us at SU Advice for support.