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Students looking for off-campus housing are being warned to be careful of possible rental scams.
Types of scams vary. In one case, perpetrators connect with students through websites listing available accommodation. The scammer may tell potential renters that in order to hold the place for them, a payment or e-transfer must be made within a matter of hours. Under normal circumstances, students may be wary of making a quick payment, but with the start of classes two weeks away, making a quick decision could be tempting in order to secure a place.
In other cases, potential landlords become demanding and even threaten legal action. Another clue that the rental is a scam is if the price seems too good to be true when compared to other similar listings.
Students coming from other countries could prove easier prey because of their unfamiliarity with practices common in Canada, said Craig Engleson, TRU World’s manager of international housing.
“If students are feeling something isn’t right, we’re urging them to get in touch with TRU World by contacting their ISA (international student advisor) and telling them about the situation,” said Engleson. “We want students to know they’re not in trouble by letting us know, we just want to help.”
A reputable list of off-campus options is the housing registry operated by TRU Students’ Union.
Brandon de Krieger, TRU Residence and Conference Centre’s general manager, says there is still space available on campus. As of Tuesday morning there were 25 spaces available at McGill Housing and 10 at the TRU Residence and Conference Centre. “The numbers give a pulse of where we are at in the moment. We constantly get cancellations at this time of year,” said de Krieger.
For information about the Residence and Conference Centre, call 250-852-6296 or email [email protected]
McGill Housing can be reached at 250-852-6330 or email [email protected]
The Kamloops RCMP has tips for renters:
- ask to see previous utility bills for the residence and/or photo ID to confirm the identity of the landlord
- choose a payment method other than cash for rent or deposits, such as a personal cheque, money order, bank draft or certified cheque
- ensure a proper tenancy agreement is drafted and signed by both parties
