Safety Guide
GharMate verifies students and reviews listings, but your safety also comes down to a few simple habits. Here's how to find a place with confidence.
Before you pay anything
- Always visit the property in person (or send someone you trust) before paying rent or a deposit.
- Never pay a 'booking amount' just to hold a room you haven't seen. Genuine owners understand you want to visit first.
- GharMate never collects your rent or deposit — those go directly to the owner. Be suspicious of anyone asking you to pay 'through GharMate'.
Spotting a scam
- Prices far below the area average, pressure to pay immediately, or an owner who refuses a visit are red flags.
- Be cautious if someone asks you to move the conversation off GharMate straight away, or requests payment by gift card or to a personal UPI before any visit.
- Look for the Verified badge, read the reviews, and check the map location matches the address.
Visiting safely
- Tell a friend or family member where and when you're going, and share the listing link.
- Visit during the day, and ideally take someone with you.
- Check the basics in person: water, power backup, locks, cleanliness, and how the neighbourhood feels.
Protect your information
- Don't share sensitive documents or ID copies with an owner until you've verified them and decided to proceed.
- Keep important conversations and agreements in writing.
- If something feels off, trust your instinct — report the listing or user and walk away.
See something suspicious? Report it from the listing or chat, or reach us via the Contact page.