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Avoiding Rental Scams in Copenhagen

Avoiding Rental Scams in Copenhagen

Finding a rental home in Copenhagen, especially as a student or newcomer, can be a daunting task. While the city offers a high standard of living and safety, it's important to be vigilant about rental scams. Scammers often prey on those desperate for housing, leading to financial loss and stress. Here are some essential tips to help you avoid rental scams in Copenhagen, incorporating advice from various reliable sources.

Be Cautious with Communication

One red flag to watch out for is if a person offering a room or flat sends you a text message without a visible phone number. These messages are often sent through the web and can indicate a scam. Always insist on clear and transparent communication, preferably through traceable channels like email or verified phone numbers.

Verify Property Ownership

Before committing to any rental agreement, verify the ownership of the property. You can do this by checking websites like Boligejer or Tinglysning. These platforms allow you to confirm whether the person renting out the property is indeed the rightful owner.

Insist on a Proper Contract

Always ensure you receive a contract signed by the current tenant or landlord. Carefully read through the contract and ensure that all agreed-upon terms are documented. This includes rent amount, deposit, duration of the lease, and any other conditions. You can view a standard contract template from Borger Service here. Having everything in writing protects you in case of disputes. It is common in Denmark for the contracts to be in Danish, therefore it is a good idea to translate it yourself with google translate or Chat gpt to ensure you understand what you are signing.

Subleasing Precautions

If you are subleasing, make sure the landlord or property owner is aware of and consents to the sublease. This can protect you if any issues arise between the landlord and the original tenant. Subleasing without the owner's knowledge can leave you vulnerable to eviction and other problems. Most landlords require a copy of the sublease contract, so it's a good idea to request that the signed contract be emailed to the landlord with you CC'd, allowing you to follow the communication. An extra tip for subleasing is to ask to see the yellow card (sundhedskort) to ensure that the person you are moving in with is registered at that address.

See the Property First

Never agree to rent a property without seeing it first. Insist on a physical showing of the apartment or house. If you are unable to visit in person, ask for a virtual tour. Do not sign any agreement or make any payments until you have seen the property and verified its existence and condition.

Transactions

Never engage in under-the-table payments. Such transactions are illegal and leave you without any legal recourse if things go wrong. Always ensure that any deposit or rent payments are made through a bank transfer. This not only makes the transaction traceable but also provides proof of payment. Avoid using services where transactions cannot be reversed. In addition, ask to only send the rent and deposits to a danish account that matches the name on the contract.

Final Checks and Common Sense

Lastly, always use common sense and trust your instincts. If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. 

By following these guidelines, you can protect yourself from rental scams and find a safe and secure home in Copenhagen. Share this information with others to help make it harder for scammers to exploit unsuspecting renters.

By staying informed and cautious, you can navigate the Copenhagen rental market more safely and avoid falling victim to scams. Remember, taking the time to verify information and ensuring legal and transparent transactions can save you from significant stress and financial loss.


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