Kilkenny students warned over bogus landlords

Gardaí are warning Kilkenny students to be wary of rental scams as the annual search for accommodation near third level colleges across the country gets underway.

According to figures released by gardaí, the return to college timeframe shows an annual spike in accommodation fraud with one third of fraud reports occurring from August to September each year, with many local students falling victim to this crime.

The focus now turns to the Leaving Cert class of 2024, many of whom — after receiving their exam results up and down the county this Friday — will turn their attention to finding somewhere to live for their first semester of college life.

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Among the advice given to local students is; only use recognised letting agencies or deal with people who are bona fide and trusted, never agree to rent a property without first having the opportunity to view it and ensure that the keys work and you have proper contact details for the landlord/agent.

For many local students, places at nearby university campuses at SETU Carlow and Waterford will be highly sought after and ahead of CAO offers being made to Kilkenny students, the university is warning students renting privately in Carlow or Waterford to; ensure they receive a signed receipt from a landlord for any deposits or rents paid in advance, to confirm the deposit is refundable when moving out of the accommodation and to be aware of the insurance terms surrounding personal property in the property.

Meanwhile, housing charity Threshold have launched their annual 'Scamwatch' campaign and are available to speak to any renter in need of advice or support Monday to Friday from 9am- 9pm on 1800 454 454.