How do I spot a rental scam in Kampala?
Last updated · Wolan Real Estate
Short answer
Stop and do not pay if the price is far below similar places, the owner is abroad or unreachable and wants money before you can view, they will not meet in person, they ask for untraceable payment with no receipt, or the photos do not match the place. Report the listing.
Warning signs
- A price far below similar places, with a story about why you must move fast.
- The "owner" is abroad or unreachable and wants money before you can view.
- They will not meet in person or show you the place.
- They ask you to pay into a personal account or by a method you cannot trace, with no receipt.
- They will not put the terms in writing or will not name who owns the property.
- Photos that do not match the place when you arrive.
What to do if something feels wrong
Stop and do not pay. If the listing is on Wolan, you can report it for free from the listing page — the landlord is not told who reported them. Wolan reviews reports; it cannot recover money paid outside the platform, which is another reason to pay only after you have seen the place and against a receipt.
How verification helps — and where it stops
Wolan asks landlords to be verified and shows a verified badge on listings from verified landlords. A badge tells you Wolan has checked the landlord's documents; it does not replace viewing the place and following the payment steps in this guide.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I report a fake listing on Wolan?
- Open the listing and use the Report option. Reporting is free, does not need the landlord's permission, and the landlord is not told who reported them.
- Can Wolan get my money back if I was scammed?
- Wolan does not hold or move rent or deposits, so it cannot reverse a payment made directly to someone. Report the listing so it can be reviewed, and consider reporting the matter to the police.