RENTAL SCAMMERS COULD GET JAIL TIME

RENTAL SCAMMERS COULD GET JAIL TIME
Sep 14, 2012
Two Chinese males were arrested for their alleged involvement in at least 30 cases of rental fraud, according to an AsiaOne report.

This follows seven cases of rental scams in August and September, whereby the victims had responded to online advertisements for rental units in Hougang Avenue 8.

The suspects, aged 28 and 38, would let the victims view the units and collect the deposit and advance payment ranging from S$4,000 to S$7,000 with the assurance that they could move in by September.

But after collecting the money, the suspects disappeared.

Both men will be charged for cheating with common intention, which carries a fine and imprisonment of up to 10 years.

Meanwhile, the police have advised the public to ensure that the person they are dealing with is the rightful owner and to request for documentary proof of ownership.

Renters should also make sure that the flat owner registers the rental with the Housing and Development Board (HDB) within seven days from the start of the rental period, or better yet, engage a licensed property agent to handle the transaction.

Info courtesy - PropertyGuru.com.sg