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Rent safely. Verify first. Pay later.

Rentaly helps you discover accommodation and organise viewings, but your final checks still matter. Use this guide before sharing documents, paying money, or signing a lease.

A renter checking accommodation details during an apartment viewing

View in person

Never pay a deposit or “holding fee” before you have viewed the accommodation and confirmed that the address matches the listing.

Verify the publisher

Ask for identification and proof that the landlord owns the property, or that the agent is authorised to act for the owner.

Use traceable payments

Read the lease first, confirm the receiving account, and keep a receipt. Avoid cash, gift cards, and cryptocurrency requests.

Viewing checklist

Before you commit to accommodation

  1. 1Inspect doors, locks, windows, water, electricity, shared areas, and any damage. Photograph agreed defects with permission.
  2. 2Confirm the full monthly cost, deposit, utilities, parking, internet, house rules, notice period, and refund terms in writing.
  3. 3Read every page of the lease. Do not sign blank documents or accept pressure to decide immediately.
  4. 4Tell someone where you are going, meet during daylight where possible, and avoid attending an unfamiliar property alone.

Something doesn’t feel right?

Stop communicating, do not send money, keep screenshots and proof of payment, and report the listing. If money or identity documents were stolen, contact SAPS and your bank immediately.

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