How to Spot and Avoid Affordable Housing Scams in Indiana

Finding safe, affordable housing in Indiana can be challenging—and unfortunately, scammers often target renters searching for a good deal. Knowing how to recognize and avoid affordable housing scams is key to protecting your money and your rights as a renter in Indiana.

Common Affordable Housing Scams in Indiana

Affordable housing scams can take many forms. Scammers typically try to trick people into paying fees or deposits for rentals that don't exist or aren't actually available. Here are some common warning signs:

• Fake listings: Scammers post rental ads using photos and details copied from real listings or vacant properties.
• Requests for payment before seeing the unit: You may be asked to pay deposits, application fees, or rent before you're allowed to visit the property.
• Unverifiable landlords or agents: The "landlord" may have no proof of ownership or refuse to meet you in person.
• Too-good-to-be-true offers: Rent is far below market value, or no background check is required.
• Pressure tactics: You're told to act fast or risk losing the opportunity.

Always be cautious and verify that you are dealing with a legitimate landlord or property manager.

Protecting Yourself from Rental Scams

Safeguarding your personal information and money is essential. Here's how you can reduce your risk:

• Never pay deposits, rent, or fees before seeing the property in person.
• Verify property ownership through the Indiana Property Tax Database or the local county assessor’s office.
• Request a written lease agreement and review all terms before paying or signing anything.
• Avoid wiring money or using payment apps to send funds to someone you haven't met and verified.
• Research the landlord’s name, phone number, and email address.

Recognizing Real Affordable Housing Assistance

If you're looking for affordable housing or rental assistance, use government-approved resources such as:

• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA)
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) - Indiana Renting

Always verify you are applying through a legitimate source before sharing your information.

Official Indiana Tenant Protections and Forms

Indiana’s rental laws are outlined in the Indiana Code, Title 32, Article 31 (Landlord-Tenant Relations). Renters have the right to written leases, safe and habitable housing, and fair treatment under the law.

• Indiana Tenant Complaint Form (no official statewide form number):
  When to use: If you believe you are a victim of a rental scam, you can file a consumer complaint with the Indiana Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division.
  Example: If you paid a deposit to a "landlord" who then disappears, submit the form online or by mail.
• Rental Assistance Application (IHCDA):
  When to use: To apply for state-approved rental assistance programs, use information and application links found on the IHCDA Indiana Rental Assistance Program page.
  Example: If you need help paying rent and want to ensure you aren’t scammed, apply only through official government portals.

Make sure any "application" you fill out is from one of these recognized government sources or a legitimate local nonprofit housing agency.

What To Do If You Suspect a Scam

If something doesn’t feel right during your housing search or application process, take action right away:

• Stop communicating and do not share more information or pay any funds.
• Gather copies of any communications or documents.
• File a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General.
• Contact your local law enforcement or the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) if you've lost money.

Where Can Renters Seek Help with Disputes?

In Indiana, landlord-tenant disputes (including those involving scams) may be taken to local Small Claims Court, depending on your county. For information on resolving disputes and accessing relevant court forms, visit the Indiana Courts Self-Service—Landlord & Tenant Disputes page.

FAQs: Affordable Housing Scams and Renter Protections in Indiana

1. What should I do if I think I’ve sent money to a scammer?
   Immediately contact your bank to report the transaction and file a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General’s office. Save all communications for your records.
2. How can I confirm if a rental listing is legitimate?
   Use the Indiana Property Tax Database to verify who owns the property and always visit the rental in person before paying any money.
3. Can I get my deposit back if I was scammed?
   Recovery isn’t guaranteed, but reporting the scam to law enforcement and the state attorney general can help start an investigation. Act quickly for the best chance.
4. Are there official forms for reporting rental scams in Indiana?
   Yes. You can use the Consumer Complaint Form on the Indiana Attorney General’s website to report scams and unfair housing practices.
5. What laws protect renters from scams in Indiana?
   Indiana Code, Title 32, Article 31 covers most rental rights and landlord responsibilities. Always review your lease and refer to official state websites.

Key Takeaways for Indiana Renters

• Only use official government or nonprofit resources when searching for affordable housing.
• Never pay money up front before seeing a property and confirming landlord identity.
• If you suspect a scam, report it immediately using state-approved forms and contacts.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA)
• Indiana Attorney General - Consumer Complaints
• Indiana Courts Landlord-Tenant Self-Service Center
• HUD Indiana Housing Resources

---

1. Indiana Code, Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations
2. Indiana Attorney General Consumer Complaint Form
3. Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA)
4. Indiana Courts Landlord-Tenant Self-Service Center
5. HUD Indiana: Renting

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations