On-Site Visit Checklist
Your safety guide for property tours
Always schedule tours between 10am-5pm. You will see the property clearly, the neighborhood feels safer, and you can spot issues like poor lighting or security concerns.
Pro tip: Avoid evening or night visits, even if the landlord insists
Never go alone. Bring a roommate, friend, or family member. Two sets of eyes catch more details, and you will feel safer throughout the visit.
Pro tip: Share your live location with someone not attending the tour
Meet at the exact address in the app. If they suggest meeting elsewhere first, that's a red flag. The property should match the GPS pin perfectly.
Pro tip: Use Google Maps to verify the location before you go
Test locks, taps, power outlets, and WiFi signal. Check for damp spots, roof leaks, cracked walls, and pest signs. Take photos/videos for reference.
Pro tip: Record a walkthrough video on your phone for later review
Payment Safety Rules
Protect your money from scammers
Always use our booking/deposit flow. It's protected, tracked, and refundable if things go wrong. Avoid cash payments to random individuals.
We hold your deposit safely until you confirm everything is legit
Only pay the verified landlord/agent. If someone asks you to pay a "friend," a "assistant," or different account, that's a scam. Walk away immediately.
The name on the bank account must match the verified profile
Save receipts, transaction IDs, and bank alerts. Screenshots can be edited, so keep original emails/SMS from your bank or payment provider.
Take a photo of receipts as backup, store in cloud storage
Take your time to decide. Legitimate landlords don't pressure you with "pay now or lose it" tactics. If you feel rushed, it's probably a scam.
Sleep on it. Good deals will still be there tomorrow
Smart Communication
Keep your conversations safe
Keep early chats on CribWise. We mask phone numbers when possible and monitor for scam phrases to protect you.
Be cautious of scammers who pressure you with "pay today or lose it" messages. Real landlords understand you need time to decide.
If someone asks you to move to WhatsApp immediately or click suspicious links, report them to us right away.
Major Red Flags 🚩
Walk away if you see these warning signs
Requests Off-Platform Payment
Pushes you to pay via personal accounts, crypto, or gift cards
Won't Meet at Location
Unwilling to meet at the exact pinned address or keeps changing locations
Demands Full Payment Upfront
Asks for full rent before viewing or signing a proper contract
Name Inconsistencies
Different names on bank account, ID, and verified profile
Too Good to Be True
Price far below market or “luxury” listing with urgent availability
No Verification Badge
Profile lacks a verification checkmark or shows recent revocation
Refuses ID or Contract
Won’t share valid ID, proof of ownership, or a clear written agreement
If you spot ANY of these red flags:
Stop all communication immediately, don't send money, and report the listing to us. Trust your gut — if something feels wrong, it probably is.
Your Quick Safety Checklist
Screenshot this and keep it handy!
Before You Visit
- Check landlord's verification badge
- Schedule during daylight hours (10am-5pm)
- Bring a friend or family member
- Share live location with someone
- Verify address matches GPS pin
Before You Pay
- Use in-app booking flow only
- Verify bank account name matches profile
- Never rush — take time to decide
- Save all payment receipts and IDs
- Read contract thoroughly before signing