Getting a lease can be a big challenge for many, and some resort to dubious tricks to increase their chances – something that can risk eviction afterwards. Listed below are three common housing scams.
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1. Manipulated references
A common scam is to leave fake references to avoid being audited. You may claim that you are resident, even though you rented an apartment previously with payment notes or other disturbances in your luggage. Such a lie can be risky, and if the landlord reveals the truth, it can lead to immediate termination of the contract.
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2. Invented separation
Pretending to separate from a partner to gain access to a lease is another housing scam that can backfire. You might argue that you need a new home after a break-up, in order to actually continue living with your partner and instead rent out the new apartment. If the scam is discovered, you not only break the queuing rules, but also risk losing both the contract and your reputation as a tenant.
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3. The children’s trick
If you have a lot of purchase points and use them to get an apartment for your child, even though you own a home yourself, you are playing a high stakes game. The purchase points are usually personal and should not be used for anyone other than oneself. If the landlord finds out that the rules have been broken, the contract can be terminated immediately.
A landlord can terminate your contract if it turns out that you used your purchase points to “give away” an apartment. Photo: Judit Nilsson/TT
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