One in three renters in Canada has encountered at least one fake listing during their housing search, according to new data from the rental platform liv.rent.
The company’s latest report, compiled using data from the Better Business Bureau and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, also found that while reported rental scams have declined by nearly 10 per cent compared to 2024, victims are losing more money when they do occur. The average loss per victim climbed about 20 per cent this year, reaching $2,095, and nearly half of those affected never recover their funds.
Released in late October, the findings suggest scammers are becoming more sophisticated, often using polished photos, real addresses, and convincing communication tactics to dupe prospective tenants into sending deposits or personal information.
Ottawa No Stranger to Rental Scams
Here in Ottawa, discussions about rental fraud surface regularly online, a reminder that the issue persists locally despite national trends.
Ottawa Reddit forums are filled with warnings from residents whose homes have been listed by scammers or who nearly paid “application deposits” before ever seeing a property. Discussions also highlight duplicate listings and homes with suspiciously low pricing with all utilities included.
Unfortunately, these scams are not new to Ottawa. What is new, however, is the level of sophistication going into these scams making them all the more convincing.
How to Protect Yourself
Renters are advised to take several precautions to avoid falling prey to rental scams:
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Verify the listing and landlord. Check the property online, compare it across multiple rental sites, and confirm that the landlord’s contact information is consistent and legitimate.
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Never send money before viewing. Avoid e-transfer or cash deposits before you’ve toured the property in person or through a verified live video call.
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Watch for urgency or pressure. Scammers often insist on immediate payment or claim multiple applicants are waiting. Legitimate landlords will allow time to review and sign proper agreements.
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Use trusted platforms. While online rental tools like Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji are popular, be cautious. Even verified listings can occasionally be duplicated by bad actors.
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Trust your instincts. If a deal seems unusually cheap for the area or communication feels off, walk away and report the post.
As rental markets remain competitive across Ontario, the latest numbers highlight a shifting threat: fewer scams overall, but greater losses when they succeed. For renters in Ottawa and beyond, vigilance remains key.