Finding an apartment in Germany is stressful. Unfortunately, scammers know this very well.
Every year, thousands of expats lose money to fake landlords, non-existent apartments, or “too good to be true” offers. Many of these scams specifically target foreigners who are unfamiliar with the German housing market.
This guide explains the most common rental scams in Germany, how they work, and how you can protect yourself.
If you are moving to Germany or currently searching for housing, this article can save you time, money, and a lot of stress.
Why Rental Scams Are So Common in Germany
Germany has one of the most competitive rental markets in Europe, especially in cities like Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Frankfurt.
Some key reasons scams are so common:
• High demand and low supply
• Long waiting times for apartments
• Foreigners unfamiliar with local rules
• Pressure to secure housing quickly
• Many searches happen online and from abroad
Scammers take advantage of urgency and fear. If someone feels desperate, they are more likely to overlook warning signs.
The Golden Rule of Renting in Germany
Never send money before:
• Seeing the apartment in person
• Signing a valid rental contract
• Verifying the landlord’s identity
If any of these steps are missing, stop immediately.
Most Common Rental Scams in Germany
- The “Landlord Is Abroad” Scam
How it works:
You find a great apartment online. The price is reasonable, the photos look professional, and the landlord replies quickly.
Then comes the explanation:
“I am currently abroad for work. I will send you the keys after you transfer the deposit.”
Once the money is sent, the landlord disappears.
Red flags:
• The landlord cannot show the apartment
• Requests payment before a visit
• Emotional stories to gain sympathy
Reality check:
Real landlords in Germany never rent without a viewing.
- Fake Apartment Listings
How it works:
Scammers copy photos from real listings or Airbnb apartments and post them again at lower prices.
You may even receive a contract and official-looking documents.
Red flags:
• The price is much lower than market average
• The same apartment appears on multiple platforms
• The address cannot be verified
Tip:
Always reverse-search images using Google.
- Deposit Request Before Contract
How it works:
You are told the apartment is yours, but you must transfer the Kaution to “reserve” it.
There is no signed contract yet.
Why this is a scam:
In Germany, the deposit is paid after signing the rental contract, not before.
- Airbnb Subletting Scams
How it works:
Someone rents an Airbnb short-term and pretends to be the landlord. They show you the apartment, collect the deposit, and disappear.
When you try to move in, the real owner has no idea who you are.
How to protect yourself:
• Ask for proof of ownership
• Verify the landlord’s ID
• Be cautious with short-term furnished apartments
- Fake Documents and IDs
Some scammers provide:
• Fake passports
• Fake rental contracts
• Fake property ownership papers
They look official but are not real.
Important:
Documents alone do not guarantee legitimacy. Always verify in person.
Platforms Where Scams Commonly Appear
Scams can appear anywhere, but they are more frequent on:
• Facebook housing groups
• Telegram or WhatsApp groups
• Unmoderated classified websites
Even well-known platforms are not immune, but they usually remove scams faster.
How to Protect Yourself From Rental Scams
Follow these rules consistently:
• Never pay anything before a visit
• Never transfer money to a foreign bank account
• Always meet the landlord in person
• Ask for a written contract in German
• Verify the address and landlord name
• Trust your instincts if something feels rushed
If you are abroad, consider temporary housing first and search once you are in Germany.
What To Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you have already sent money:
- Contact your bank immediately
- Report the scam to the police
- Report the listing platform
- Save all communication and documents
While recovery is difficult, reporting helps prevent others from being scammed.
Safer Alternatives for New Expats
If you are new to Germany, consider:
• Temporary furnished apartments
• Student residences
• Official relocation services
• Company housing assistance
These options may be more expensive short-term but significantly safer.
How This Fits Into the Housing in Germany Guide
This article is part of the larger Housing in Germany series, which covers:
• How to find an apartment
• WG vs apartment comparison
• SCHUFA explained
• Documents needed to rent
• Average rent by city
Reading all of them together gives you a complete and realistic understanding of the German housing market.
Final Advice From Experience
If an apartment offer feels too easy in Germany, it probably is not real.
Germany’s housing market is strict, competitive, and paperwork-heavy. Real rentals involve effort, patience, and verification.
Taking your time is always cheaper than losing your deposit.
Newly German 
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