How to avoid rental scams in New York

Updated October 25, 2026

Rental scams work because good apartments in New York are scarce and people are in a hurry. Almost all of them end the same way: you send money for a place you have not seen, to someone who cannot rent it to you. A few simple rules protect you from nearly all of them.

Warning signs

The price is far below similar apartments in the same neighborhood.
The "owner" is out of town and cannot show the apartment, but will mail the keys after you pay.
You are asked for a deposit to "hold" the apartment before a viewing.
Pressure: many other people are interested, so you must pay today.
Payment by gift card, crypto, wire transfer or a payment app to someone you have not met.
Photos that look like a hotel or appear on other sites under other addresses.

Before you pay anything

See the apartment in person, or send someone you trust.
Check that the person renting it is the owner or the managing agent. NYC property records (ACRIS) show the registered owner, and HPD Online shows building registration and violations.
If a broker is involved, check that they are licensed with New York State.
Sign a written lease before paying, with the full names of both sides.
Pay by check or traceable bank payment to the landlord or management company named on the lease, and get a receipt.

Roommate and sublet scams

Ask a subletter or a roommate who already lives there whether the landlord agreed. In many New York buildings a sublet needs the landlord's written consent, and one the landlord did not approve can end with you being asked to leave. Talk to the landlord or management yourself if you can.

If something feels wrong

Stop and do not send money. On Roomly you can report a listing from the listing page, and our team reviews every report. If you already paid a scammer, contact your bank right away, report it to the police, and file a complaint with the New York State Attorney General.

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