Updated 6/05/25
If you think tenant scams are rare or unlikely to happen to you, think again. In 2025, rental fraud is evolving rapidly, and more landlords are falling victim to creative, deceptive, and costly tenant tricks. From forged pay stubs to fake emotional support animal letters, scam tenants are using loopholes, fake documents, and legal gray areas to move in, stop paying rent, and tie up the eviction process for months.
As a landlord, it’s no longer enough to trust your gut or rely solely on the basic background check. Scam tenants are smart, determined, and often experienced at manipulating rental systems. If you want to protect your property and rental income, you need to know how these scams work and what warning signs to look for. This guide dives deep into the most common tenant scams landlords should know, with practical advice on how to avoid them.
Too Long Didn’t Read:
Scam tenants in 2025 are becoming more aggressive and sophisticated. This article outlines 10 types of tenant scams landlords should know—including fake ESA letters, forged pay stubs, subleasing fraud, and eviction manipulation. Learn how to protect your property by spotting red flags during screening, verifying income and identity, and taking proactive legal steps to prevent fraud.
Table of Contents
- Common Types of Tenant Scams Targeting Landlords
- Red Flags Landlords Should Watch For During Screening
- How Fake Checks and Overpayments Are Used to Scam
- The Dangers of Forged Pay Stubs and Employment History
- How Tenants Manipulate the Eviction Process
- How to Detect False Rental History and Landlord References
- Warning Signs of Illegal Subleasing and Unauthorized Occupants
- Spotting Fake ESA or Service Animal Letters
- Tips to Verify Tenant Identity and Creditworthiness
- Best Practices to Protect Your Property from Scam Tenants
- Frequently Asked Questions About Tenant Scams
Common Types of Tenant Scams Targeting Landlords
Scam tenants operate in many forms, but their goal is always the same: gain access to your rental property with the least amount of scrutiny. Some may lie on their applications. Others present themselves as trustworthy but have no intent of paying rent. Common scams include identity theft, falsified employment, subleasing to others without permission, and exploiting loopholes in rent control and eviction laws.
These tenant scams are not isolated to big cities. They’re widespread, and landlords of all sizes must be alert. In particular, scams targeting landlords in California are becoming more nuanced due to the state’s tenant-friendly laws. That’s why knowing how to spot a bad tenant early in the process is crucial.
Red Flags Landlords Should Watch For During Screening
A smooth-talking applicant who pushes for a quick move-in might be hiding something. If they refuse to complete a full application or avoid showing ID, those are your first red flags. Be wary of tenants who offer to pay several months in advance without being asked—it may seem like a bonus, but it’s often a tactic to avoid deeper screening.
Also, carefully review all documents they provide. Look for inconsistencies between their credit report, pay stubs, and rental history. If something doesn’t add up, ask questions. Scam tenants often count on landlords being too busy to double-check.
How Fake Checks and Overpayments Are Used to Scam
One of the most popular tenant scams landlords should know involves fake cashier’s checks. A tenant provides a check for the deposit or first month’s rent, which at first appears to clear. Days later, the bank flags it as counterfeit. By that point, the scammer may have received a partial refund or already moved in.
Another variation involves deliberate overpayments. The tenant sends a check for more than the amount due, then asks the landlord to refund the difference. Since the check is fake, the landlord ends up losing money.
Always verify checks with the issuing bank before releasing keys or funds. Better yet, only accept certified funds that can be instantly confirmed.
The Dangers of Forged Pay Stubs and Employment History
Verifying tenant income is one of the most important steps in your screening process. Unfortunately, many scam tenants generate forged pay stubs using online templates or editing apps. It can be surprisingly easy for them to create realistic-looking documents with inflated salaries or fake employers.
Even references from “HR departments” may be fake. Be cautious if the contact number goes to a personal cell phone or the same area code as the applicant’s. Use online tools to independently confirm the employer’s legitimacy and call their corporate line, not the number provided.
If something feels off, request a recent W-2 or bank statement. Don’t rely solely on paper documents—ask for digital verification when possible.
How Tenants Manipulate the Eviction Process
Some tenants move in with the intention of never paying rent. They count on the eviction process being slow and costly—especially in places like California, where renter protections are strong.
Once they stop paying, they use every trick in the book: claiming repair issues, filing complaints, or requesting jury trials to delay proceedings. In some cases, they’ll even threaten legal action or claim discrimination to intimidate landlords.
Knowing your rights and responsibilities is key. Keep all communication in writing, document repairs, and follow the legal notice process to the letter. Having a landlord-tenant attorney on standby can save you time and money.
How to Detect False Rental History and Landlord References
It’s common for scam tenants to list fake landlord references—often friends or family members. They may create a phony email or even rent a Google Voice number to impersonate a past landlord.
To detect this scam, ask specific questions about lease dates, unit conditions, and payment history. A fake reference will usually struggle to answer or give vague responses.
When possible, cross-reference property ownership records or call property management companies directly. Don’t just call the number they give you—do your own research.
Warning Signs of Illegal Subleasing and Unauthorized Occupants
Tenant sublease scams are becoming more common in 2025. Some tenants sign leases only to turn around and sublet the unit to others at a higher rate. In other cases, unauthorized roommates move in and live there without your knowledge.
These situations can result in property damage, lease violations, and legal liabilities. Watch for excessive foot traffic, utilities in other names, or tenants avoiding inspections. Frequent Airbnb activity may also indicate an illegal sublease.
Make sure your lease includes clear language forbidding unauthorized occupants and outlines inspection rights.
Spotting Fake ESA or Service Animal Letters
Tenants with pets may try to bypass no-pet policies or fees by presenting fake emotional support animal letters. Many of these documents come from websites that offer ESA certification for a fee—with no real medical evaluation involved.
In California, landlords must comply with disability accommodation laws, but that doesn’t mean accepting every ESA claim. A legitimate ESA letter must come from a licensed healthcare provider who has a therapeutic relationship with the tenant.
If you receive a suspicious letter, you can ask for clarification or a verification form from a medical professional. Just avoid asking invasive questions about the disability itself.
Tips to Verify Tenant Identity and Creditworthiness
Scam tenants often use stolen or synthetic identities. This means the name might be real, but the Social Security number or documents are fake. Always require a government-issued photo ID and check for alterations.
Compare the tenant’s ID with their credit report, pay stub, and rental application. Watch for mismatched addresses or names. Use a reputable tenant screening service that checks identity, criminal history, and eviction records.
For added protection, verify their current employer and contact at least two past landlords directly.
Best Practices to Protect Your Property from Scam Tenants
Avoiding rental scams as a landlord requires a multi-layered approach. First, set strict screening standards and stick to them. Don’t accept incomplete applications or skip steps to fill a vacancy quickly.
Next, write a lease agreement that clearly outlines rules on rent payment, subleasing, occupants, pets, and inspections. Make sure every tenant reads and signs it. Keep communication in writing and store digital copies of all documents.
Finally, follow state laws carefully when issuing notices or starting the eviction process. Many scam tenants use technicalities to delay eviction, so be meticulous.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tenant Scams
What are some of the most common tenant scams landlords should know?
Fake pay stubs, sublease fraud, ESA letter scams, forged identities, and eviction abuse are some of the most common rental fraud tenant scams in 2025.
How can I protect myself from scam tenants not paying rent?
Use thorough screening, verify income and identity, require references, and have a legally sound lease. Respond to nonpayment issues immediately and document everything.
Are there tools to spot fake tenant applications or forged documents?
Yes. Use tenant screening services, background checks, online employer verification, and even social media checks to confirm employment and identity.
Can I deny a tenant for giving me a fake ESA letter?
Yes, but you must handle it carefully and avoid Fair Housing violations. Ask for legitimate documentation from a licensed provider.
