Safety Tips & Guidelines

Your safety and security are our top priorities. Follow these essential guidelines to ensure a safe rental experience for both tenants and landlords.

Personal Safety

Protect yourself during property viewings and meetings

Online Security

Keep your digital information and accounts secure

Scam Prevention

Identify and avoid rental scams and fraudulent listings

Property Safety

Ensure your rental property meets safety standards

Personal Safety Guidelines

Property Viewings
  • Always inform someone of your viewing schedule and location
  • Visit properties during daylight hours when possible
  • Bring a friend or family member with you
  • Meet the landlord/agent in a public place first
  • Verify the identity of the person showing the property
  • Trust your instincts - leave if something feels wrong
  • Keep your phone charged and accessible
Pro Tip: Schedule multiple viewings close together and in the same area for efficiency and safety.
Meeting Landlords
  • Verify landlord identity through official documents
  • Meet in public places for initial discussions
  • Check that they actually own or manage the property
  • Be wary of overly pushy or urgent behavior
  • Never provide personal documents until verified
  • Avoid cash transactions - use traceable payments
  • Get all agreements in writing
Red Flag: Anyone asking for money upfront before showing proper credentials or property ownership.

Online Security Best Practices

  • Use strong, unique passwords for your RentSmart account
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) when available
  • Regularly update your password and security questions
  • Log out from shared or public computers
  • Monitor your account for unauthorized activity
  • Never share your login credentials with anyone

  • Use RentSmart's messaging system for all communications
  • Keep records of all conversations and agreements
  • Be cautious about sharing personal information too quickly
  • Report inappropriate or suspicious messages immediately
  • Avoid moving conversations off the platform prematurely
  • Never click suspicious links in messages

  • Only upload documents through secure, encrypted channels
  • Watermark sensitive documents when possible
  • Monitor who has access to your shared documents
  • Remove access when it's no longer needed
  • Report any unauthorized document requests
  • Keep backup copies of important documents

Rental Scam Prevention

Common Scam Warning Signs
  • Urgent Payment Demands
    Pressure to send money immediately to "secure" the property
  • No In-Person Meetings
    Refusal to meet in person or show the property
  • Too Good to Be True
    Prices significantly below market value
  • Poor Communication
    Generic responses, poor grammar, or evasive answers
  • Wire Transfer Requests
    Insisting on untraceable payment methods
Verification Steps
  • Research the property address online
  • Verify property ownership through public records
  • Check the landlord's identity and credentials
  • Compare prices with similar properties in the area
  • Reverse search property photos for duplicates
  • Visit the property in person before paying anything
  • Use secure, traceable payment methods only
Remember: Legitimate landlords understand the need for verification and won't pressure you to rush.
If You Suspect a Scam

Stop all communication immediately • Document everything (screenshots, messages, receipts) • Report to Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) • Do not send any money

Property Safety Standards

For Tenants
Safety Checklist During Viewing:
  • Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Test locks on doors and windows
  • Look for adequate lighting in common areas
  • Verify fire escape routes
  • Check for mold, water damage, or structural issues
  • Ensure proper ventilation in all rooms
  • Ask about building security measures
For Landlords
Legal Safety Requirements:
  • Install and maintain smoke detectors
  • Provide carbon monoxide detectors where required
  • Ensure all electrical work meets code
  • Maintain heating and cooling systems
  • Address water damage and mold promptly
  • Provide secure locks and entry systems
  • Maintain exterior lighting and pathways
Emergency Preparedness
Both Parties Should:
  • Know the location of utility shutoffs
  • Have emergency contact information
  • Understand evacuation procedures
  • Keep fire extinguishers accessible
  • Maintain first aid supplies
  • Plan for natural disasters
  • Review insurance coverage regularly

Report Suspected Fraud

If you suspect rental fraud, scams, or any suspicious property listings, report it immediately to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) at your nearest police station.

Additional Safety Resources

Safety Guidelines PDF

Download our comprehensive safety guide for offline reference

Download Guide
Safety Training Videos

Watch video tutorials on rental safety best practices

Watch Videos

Report Safety Concerns

If you encounter any safety issues or suspicious activity, report it immediately. Your safety and the safety of our community is our top priority.

Report Issue Contact Support