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Staying safe while finding digs

Finding student accommodation is exciting, but it pays to be careful. Follow these guidelines to protect yourself, your money, and your personal information.

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Before you view a place

  • Verify the listing on VSA before contacting the landlord — all listings on this platform have been reviewed.
  • Check the landlord's profile: look for a verified badge, contact number, and how long they have been listed.
  • Never pay any fee just to view a place. Viewing is always free.
  • Do a quick Google Maps check of the address before you go — make sure it is in the area advertised.

Viewing safely

  • Go in daylight — avoid evening or night-time viewings, especially if it is your first visit.
  • Bring a friend or family member with you whenever possible.
  • Tell someone you trust where you are going and what time you expect to be back.
  • Check the locks on doors and windows — they should be in working order.
  • Look for adequate outdoor lighting, especially near the entrance and parking.
  • Identify fire exits and check that they are not blocked.
  • Trust your instincts: if something feels off, you are not obligated to stay.

Money and deposits

  • Never pay a deposit or first month's rent before you have physically seen the place and signed a written lease.
  • Always pay by EFT (bank transfer) to a traceable account — avoid cash payments.
  • Get a written receipt for every payment, including your deposit.
  • Under the Rental Housing Act, your deposit must be held in an interest-bearing account and returned (with interest) within 7 days of a dispute-free move-out.
  • Do not pay via third-party apps or gift vouchers — these are common scam methods.

Spotting scams

  • If the rent is significantly cheaper than similar places nearby, be cautious — deals that seem too good are often fake.
  • Be wary of landlords who pressure you to pay quickly or claim the room will be taken if you do not pay today.
  • A landlord who is always "out of town" and cannot meet you in person is a red flag.
  • Never hand over copies of your ID or NSFAS documents before you have viewed the place in person and signed an agreement.
  • Verify any claimed NSFAS accreditation directly with VSA — do not take the landlord's word for it.
  • Reverse-image-search listing photos if the place looks unusually well-furnished or the photos look professional — scammers often use stolen images.

Your lease

  • Always insist on a written lease agreement — a verbal agreement is very difficult to enforce.
  • Do a joint move-in inspection with the landlord and note any existing damage in writing before you move anything in.
  • Repeat the inspection on move-out so the condition of the room is documented from both ends.
  • Your lease should clearly state: monthly rent, deposit amount, notice period, what utilities are included, and house rules.
  • You are entitled to a copy of the signed lease for your own records.

If something goes wrong

  • If a listing on VSA is suspicious or you have been scammed through our platform, report it immediately so we can investigate and protect other students.
  • For questions, disputes, or urgent concerns you can contact VSA directly — we will do our best to assist.
  • South African Police Service (SAPS): dial 10111 from any phone.
  • Emergency services (police, ambulance, fire): dial 112 from any cellphone, even without airtime.