Rental scams
Can a scammer fake a video tour?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
Yes. Scammers send pre-recorded videos copied from real listings, or film a unit during an open house or a short-term stay. A live video call where you choose what they show is harder to fake, but even that only proves someone is inside, not that they own the place or have the right to rent it to you.
A video tour is good for judging the apartment and weak evidence of who controls it. Use it alongside ownership checks, not instead of them.
To get more out of a live video tour:
- Ask them to start outside, showing the street sign and building number, then walk to the unit door and its number.
- Ask for things they can't plan for: open a particular closet, run the kitchen tap, look out a specific window.
- Ask to see mail or a document with their name at that address, then compare it with the county property records.
- Take screenshots during the call.
People who have access but no right to rent, such as a short-term guest, a cleaner or a former tenant, can pass a live tour. That's why payment should still go to a verified owner or company, after a signed lease. If you can't visit, ask a friend, classmate or coworker nearby to view it in person for you.
Want the whole picture? Read How To Avoid Housing Scams.