Successful Subletting Tips & Tricks

If you're planning on leaving campus for the summer but have a year-long lease, you may be looking to sublet your apartment. Subletting is a great temporary solution that will help you pay for rent while you're not there, but it is also a common target for scammers.

What do Sublet Scams Look Like?

These scams can be fairly easy to spot, because they typically follow the same patterns. A scammer pretends to be an interested renter, contacts you (usually via email) and sends you a check for more than the amount you have requested. Then the scammer says they have to cancel their plans. You're then asked to wire back the difference or request that you send money to a third party to pay moving expenses or tuition. The original check that you deposited is returned unpaid—often after a week or more—and you have lost all of the money you wired.

Avoid Being Scammed by Following These Tips

• Learn to spot scam emails. Be wary of emails that have many spelling and grammar errors. It's also a good idea to talk to potential renters on the phone, don't just communicate over email.
• Keep it local. Only use reputable websites or newspapers to advertise and list your sublet. Only sublet to people who are local, or verify the renter's identity prior to subletting.
• Never accept a check or money order from a stranger who asks to wire money in return.   If you do receive a suspicious check or money order, bring it to a branch or call our Fraud Prevention Department to have it verified.

Remember, there is no legitimate reason why anyone would send you a check or money order and ask you to wire money in return. If you have questions about subletting scams or think you have received a counterfeit check, call our Fraud Prevention Department at 608-232-5000 or 800-533-6773.

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