Safety

Safety & Trust

tuzama connects you directly with landlords and renters, with no middleman. That's what makes it fast — but it also means the usual street-smarts apply. Here's how to stay safe.

The short version

  • Never send money before viewing the property in person
  • Be wary of deals that seem too cheap for the area
  • A landlord who avoids calls or meeting in person is a red flag
  • Pay deposits and rent directly to a verified landlord, never a "caretaker" or third party you haven't confirmed
  • Report suspicious listings so we can take them down

Before you reach out

What tuzama does and doesn't do

tuzama is a directory — landlords post listings, renters browse them, and once you're both ready, contact details are exchanged so you can take it from there. We don't verify listings, vet landlords or renters, arrange viewings, or process any payments. Everything past that first contact is between you and the other person, so it's worth treating it with the same caution you would any direct, off-platform deal.

Watch out for

Common red flags

  • The price is noticeably below similar listings in the same area
  • You're asked to pay a deposit or "booking fee" before viewing the property
  • The landlord claims to be traveling or unavailable and asks you to deal with someone else on their behalf
  • Pressure to decide or pay quickly, "before someone else takes it"
  • Payment is requested via mobile money to a personal number with no receipt or paperwork
  • The landlord refuses a phone call or won't meet in person
  • Photos look like they might be from another listing or property site — a quick reverse image search can confirm this

Before you pay anything

Always view the property in person first

Don't send a deposit, rent, or any payment before you've physically seen the property and met the landlord (or their clearly authorized representative). If you can't view it yourself, send someone you trust — never rely solely on photos or a video call.

Ask to see ID confirming who you're dealing with, and where possible, some proof they own or manage the property (a title deed, a previous tenant's lease, a utility bill in their name). A genuine landlord won't be offended by reasonable questions.

Meeting up

Meet safely

Where possible, view properties during daylight hours and bring a friend or family member along. Let someone know where you're going and roughly when you expect to be back, especially for a first viewing.

For landlords too

Renters: do your own checks as well

If you're a landlord, it's reasonable to ask prospective tenants for ID and references before handing over keys or signing a lease, the same way you'd want a renter to verify you.

See something off?

Report a listing

If a listing looks fraudulent, misleading, or duplicated from elsewhere, email us at tuzama@zohomailcloud.ca with the listing link and what looked wrong. We'll review and remove it if it violates our Terms of Service. A dedicated in-app reporting button is coming soon.