Since late March, at least 13 cases of flat rental scams have been reported at Blk 1 Lor Lew Lian #06-24.
In all the cases, victims had responded to flat rental advertisements placed in the Chinese newspapers between March 4 and 29 this year.
The suspect would arrange with victims to view the unit, and collect sums of money
from them as deposit for the rental of the unit.
He collected between $500 to $4,800 from these individuals.
The victims were told to move into the unit between 3 and 7 April 2011.
After collecting the money, the suspect would then become evasive and remain uncontactable.
Police believe that this man, Chua Thiam Lye, may be able to assist in investigations.
His description is as follows:
- male Chinese in his 40s
- about 1.7m tall
- short black hair
- plump build
- a mole below his lips
Anyone with information is requested to call the Police Hotline at 1800-2550000.
All information will be kept strictly confidential.
Crime Prevention Tips
a. Seek service from an established estate agent;
b. Conduct a check against the agent and the company before signing any agreement;
c. Observe due diligence and carry out verifications of any documents relating to the property;
d. Visit the flat you wish to rent and ensure that the person you are dealing with is the rightful flat owner. Request documentary proof of flat ownership that bears the flat owner’s name.
e. Request the flat owner to show you a copy of the approval letter from HDB if you are renting the whole flat
f. Be careful if asked for an advance payment and do not pay large sums in cash. As proof of payment, you should pay the rental deposit and rents by cheque; and
g. Do a check with the company to ensure that the estate agent is indeed with the company. If in doubt, request to sign the documents and hand over the deposit at the office.
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