Security

Quardlyn Security Center

Stay safe when searching for property

Looking for a home should feel exciting — not risky. Unfortunately, fraudsters sometimes use property ads, fake identities, and pressure tactics to trick people into sending money or sharing personal details.

This Security Center explains how to spot scams, verify listings and agents, and what to do immediately if something doesn't feel right.

If you suspect a scam, do this first

  1. Stop and don't pay anything (including holding deposits, viewing fees, or reservation fees) until you've verified who you're dealing with.
  2. Don't share personal documents (passport, driving licence, bank statements) until you're sure the agent, landlord, or broker is genuine.
  3. If you've already paid: contact your bank immediately using the number on your card or app.

Report it (even if you didn't lose money):

    Common property scams (and the red flags)

    1) Rental listing scams

    Fraudsters pose as landlords or agents and try to collect deposits or rent upfront for properties they don't own.

    1. Unusually low price for the area
    2. Payment requested before viewing
    3. Pressure tactics such as “pay now to secure it”
    4. Landlord claims to be overseas
    5. Requests for crypto, gift cards, or transfers

    2) Deposit & holding fee scams

    Scammers request a fee and then disappear.

      1. Only pay after viewing
      2. Get written terms and refund rules
      3. Use traceable payment methods

    UK rule: Deposits must be protected within 30 days in an approved scheme.

    3) Fake agents / clone businesses

    1. Verify contact details independently
    2. Check investment offers using FCA tools

    4) Bank detail change scams (buyers)

    1. Get bank details directly from your solicitor
    2. Be suspicious of last-minute changes
    3. Verify by phone using a trusted number

    5) Property ownership fraud

    1. Follow HM Land Registry guidance
    2. Sign up to Property Alert (free)

    How to check an agent is legitimate (UK)

    Redress schemes

    1. The Property Ombudsman
    2. Property Redress Scheme

    Client Money Protection

    Agents holding client money may need to belong to an approved CMP scheme.

    Safer renting checklist

    1. View the property
    2. Confirm agent or landlord identity
    3. Read tenancy terms carefully
    4. Confirm deposit protection
    5. Never feel rushed

    Safer buying checklist

    1. Use a regulated solicitor
    2. Verify bank details by phone
    3. Keep all communications
    4. Pause if anything changes suddenly

    Report a listing on Quardlyn

    1. Use the Report Listing button
    2. Email: security@quardlyn.co.uk

    Include:

    • The property reference/URL
    • Screenshots of messages/emails
    • Payment details requested (if any)
    • Phone numbers and email addresses used

      Useful official resources (UK)

        • Report Fraud (police reporting): online or 0300 123 2040 (Report Fraud)
        • Report phishing: report@phishing.gov.uk (GOV.UK)
        • Report scam texts: forward to 7726 (NCSC)
        • Tenancy deposit protection (GOV.UK) (GOV.UK)
        • Redress scheme requirement (GOV.UK) (GOV.UK)
        • Property Alert (HM Land Registry) (GOV.UK)
        • Payment diversion fraud guidance (Law Society) (Law Society)
        • FCA checks (Firm Checker / Warning List) (FCA)