The EPS is currently investigating a rental scam that has defrauded multiple complainants of almost $11,000. It is reported that the address 7516 147 Avenue is being fraudulently advertised as a house for rent on Facebook marketplace, and may be advertised on other online marketplaces as well.
Multiple complainants have reported speaking with a person they believed to be the homeowner, and in some cases meeting in person and touring the house. After the prospective tenants sign a lease and pay a deposit, the suspect disappears with the money, failing to return calls or show up on the agreed-upon possession date.
Police are investigating, and in the meantime are advising prospective renters to be aware of the address and accompanying scam, and report advertisements for this address to police. As well, anyone who has information or has lost funds as a result of this scam is asked to report it to police.
In addition to touring the property in person, prospective renters are advised to:
- Chat with someone who has rented from the same person or company in the past, if possible.
- Conduct an internet search on the property to see who may live there, and determine if there are additional rental ads for the same property.
- Check other listings in the general area and see what the going rates for rentals are.
- Pay attention to your instincts: if something feels wrong with a listing, the application process feels rushed, or something seems too good to be true, be wary.
More tips to avoid rental scams are available on the EPS website.
To report this scam to police, please contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.