How do we know if the Landlord of the house is not an illegal one?
Hi, I need your advise? Actually we are searching for a new flat for me & my family. Finally, we already found 1 apartment in Sofitel area for QR3,500.00 which consist of 2 Bedrooms, 1 Sitting area, kitchen & toilet (No Deposit & No Advance Payment). The caretaker of that house was asking for QR1,000.00 advance deposit for the water and electricity, which is refundable when we want to leave the flat. He gave us a receipt when we gave the money, but the thing we worried is, there are no Company Name, Address, Tel or Fax#, and CR copy on the said receipt/invoice. Tonight, we are going to meet him again to give the P3,500.00/monthly rent for March.
Before we continue to take this house, could you please share your opinion in this matter? Are we might be a victim of fraud…..I also heard that Sofitel Area might be scheduled for demolition (how true)? Thanks in advance……
I think, from the description, you are renting from a mediator. But if you want an authentic documentation, you should enter the contract with the landlord. As he cannot do that, he is taking security deposit of electricity & water from you. Probably you are getting good price for this property. Ofcource these area will be demolished but for the time being it is not effective within 6 months. Go ahead and wish u all the best
1) Receipts have to have CR numbers and contact details so that should be a red flag.
2) It is not a rumour that Sofitel area is due for demolition in the coming months.
3) Even with falling rents, it is impossible to get a whole apartment at that price.
There have been so many reports in the newspapers and in QL of unscrupulous landlords cheating potential tenants. While you can't lodge a complaint just yet, you can protect yourself and family by avoiding this situation and spreading the word.
All the best.