Safety Tips

Your safety is our top priority. Whether you're looking for a room or listing one, these tips will help keep you safe throughout the process.

Safety Tips for Room Seekers

Follow these guidelines to stay safe while searching for and moving into a new shared living space.

Meeting Potential Roommates

  • Meet in public places for initial meetings, like coffee shops or restaurants.
  • Let a friend or family member know where you're going and who you're meeting.
  • Consider bringing someone with you for property viewings.
  • Trust your instincts – if something feels wrong, it probably is.
  • Visit properties during daylight hours whenever possible.

Verify Information

  • Request to see identification from potential roommates or landlords.
  • Ask for proof of property ownership or rental rights before signing anything.
  • Research the address online to confirm it matches the listing details.
  • Check social media profiles to verify identities when possible.

Property Inspection

  • Check all locks on doors and windows to ensure they're secure.
  • Verify that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are installed and working.
  • Look for signs of pests, mold, or structural issues and document them with photos.
  • Ask about building security features such as external lighting or secure entry systems.

Financial Safety

  • Never send money or provide financial details before seeing the property and meeting in person.
  • Be wary of requests for unusual payment methods like wire transfers or cryptocurrency.
  • Get receipts for all payments, including security deposits.
  • Research typical rental rates in the area to ensure you're not being overcharged.

Warning Signs to Watch For

  • Rental prices that seem too good to be true (they usually are).
  • Landlords or roommates who are unwilling to meet in person or do video calls.
  • Requests for payment or personal information before you've seen the property.
  • Pressure to make quick decisions or send money urgently.
  • Refusal to provide a written lease agreement or proper documentation.

Legal Protection

  • Always get a written rental agreement, even if sharing with roommates.
  • Read all contracts carefully before signing and ask questions about unclear terms.
  • Understand your rights as a tenant in your specific location.
  • Take photos of the property's condition before moving in to document pre-existing issues.

Safety is a Shared Responsibility

NeedaRoomie is committed to providing a safe platform, but your personal safety is ultimately in your hands. If you encounter suspicious activity or feel unsafe, please contact local authorities and report issues to our team.