Renting safely

Roomela is free and we don't take part in your rental agreement — the contract is between you and the lister. A few simple habits keep you safe from the scams that target room seekers everywhere.

Never pay before a contract and a viewing

Do not send a deposit, "reservation fee" or first month's rent before you have seen a written rental contract and, ideally, viewed the room in person (or by live video if you are abroad). The single most common scam is a lister who asks you to pay to "hold" a room you have never seen.

Insist on a written contract

A proper rental or sublet contract should name:

• the parties (landlord/sub-landlord and tenant) and the exact room;
• the monthly rent and exactly which utilities are included;
• the deposit amount and the conditions for getting it back;
• the start date and notice period.

If someone is subletting a room in a flat they rent, Slovak law (Civil Code §719) requires their own landlord's written consent — it's fair to ask to see it.

Don't pay cash without a receipt

Prefer a bank transfer so there is a record. If you pay any amount in cash, get a signed, dated receipt stating what the payment was for.

Keep the conversation on Roomela

Be cautious if a lister quickly pushes you onto WhatsApp, Telegram or email, refuses a viewing, or pressures you to decide "today". Keeping messages on Roomela means there is a record if you need to report a problem. New accounts can't send links in chat for this reason.

Watch for prices that are too good

A room far below the going rate for the city, a lister who is "abroad and can't show it", or a request to pay via gift cards or crypto are strong warning signs. When in doubt, walk away.

Foreigners: keep your paperwork

If you need proof of accommodation for residence or study purposes, ask for a signed rental contract or an accommodation confirmation from the property owner. Verbal promises are not enough for the authorities.

Report anything suspicious

Every listing has a Report button — it works even without an account. If a lister asks for an up-front payment before a contract, or something else feels wrong, please report it so we can review and, where needed, remove the listing.