Police, Prosecutors Advise Caution Amid Apartment Leasing Scams
BOSTON, March 14, 2016—Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel F. Conley and Boston Police Commissioner William B. Evans are warning potential renters to avoid online leasing scams amid an ongoing investigation into several incidents in Boston.
Suffolk prosecutors and Boston Police detectives are currently investigating incidents in which victims responded to apartment listings on web sites such as Craigslist and sent payments with the expectation that they would be leasing the apartment in the ad. The victims would later arrive at the residence prepared to move in, only to find the property already occupied and the rightful owner unaware of any lease agreement.
“The process of renting an apartment and moving into a new home is stressful enough,” Conley said. “I urge every renter to do careful research before entering into any agreement to ensure you’re getting what you paid for.”
“We ask that people using on-line services to rent apartments in Boston use caution,” said Evans. “By taking a few extra steps you can reduce your chances of becoming a victim of this type of scam.”
Prospective renters are encouraged to:
· Consider working with a licensed real estate professional to avoid phony apartment listings; Massachusetts licensure can be checked here.
· Meet in-person with a prospective landlord to view the apartment yourself.
· Don’t send payments unless you have independently confirmed that the recipient is the true owner of the property.
Anyone with information or who would like to report a similar incident may contact the DA’s Special Prosecutions Unit at 617-619-4090.
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