In 2026, landlords have become prime targets for fraudsters who exploit the complexity of legal obligations, rising insurance costs, and the growing number of mandatory renovations. Scams are becoming more sophisticated, more convincing, and often harder to detect.
This article presents some of the most common frauds, the warning signs, and the essential protective measures.
1. Scams often targeting landlords
Fraudsters target landlords who rent out their units.
Examples
• Fake prospective tenants with forged documents.
• Fake security deposits through fraudulent platforms.
• Identity theft to sign a lease.
The trust a tenant inspires in us is actually our real problem. Don't rely on appearances — a good fraudster is convincing and inspires trust; otherwise they wouldn't be able to fool us.
A tenant in a rush to sign before you've finished your checks, a tenant with no photo ID to show you, a tenant who shows up alone but says there will be two names on the lease and that it isn't necessary to verify the other tenant…
Attend the APQ conference on February 17, 2027: Tenant Screening and Pre-Rental Background Checks — Essential Verifications and Legal Obligations
2. Fake inspectors and fake mandatory inspections
Fraudsters pose as municipal inspectors, fire safety technicians, or inspectors of mandatory equipment (detectors, pumps, ventilation). Even if they show up in uniform, be wary!
How to protect yourself:
• Check with the municipality.
• Demand official identification.
• Never let an unannounced inspector in.
3. Fake municipal or government notices
Letters or emails imitating official communications:
• non-compliance notices,
• threats of fines,
• requests to update files,
• fake taxes or administrative fees.
How to protect yourself:
• Check directly on the official website.
• Call the municipality using its real phone number.
• Never pay through a link received by email.
4. Fraudulent or unqualified contractors
With the rise in mandatory work (fire safety, drainage, ventilation), some contractors are taking advantage of the situation.
Warning signs:
• Refusal to provide an RBQ licence and insurance, or a fake licence number.
• No written contract.
• Abnormally low pricing.
• Pressure to sign quickly.
How to protect yourself:
• Verify the RBQ licence.
• Require a detailed contract.
• Pay in instalments based on actual progress.
Conclusion
In 2026, scams targeting landlords are more sophisticated than ever. The best defence remains vigilance, systematic verification of information, and transparent communication between landlords, managers, and tenants. The Association des Propriétaires du Québec (APQ) plays an essential role by informing, training, and supporting its members to reduce these risks.
A few frauds and scams targeting landlords
