Reported rental fraud across England and Wales has fallen significantly over the past three years.

But although the drop is 18% the average amount lost by each victim has increased sharply.

Analysis by Just Landlords found that reports declined from 4,982 during the 2023/24 financial year to 4,092 in 2025/26.

Yet despite fewer cases, total annual losses increased a fifth from £10.74m to £12.84m.

The average loss per report consequently rose by 46%, from £2,156 to £3,138.

Using data from Action Fraud and the Metropolitan Police, the regional breakdown shows Derbyshire with the largest decline in reported cases, falling by 64% over the three-year period.

Bedfordshire followed with a 61% reduction, while reports in Wiltshire and Dyfed-Powys fell by 57%. Cleveland recorded a 53% decline and Nottinghamshire saw cases halve by 51%.

Jersey and the Isle of Man each registered a 50% fall, with Avon and Somerset and Gloucestershire both down by 49%.

However, Warwickshire, Devon and Cornwall saw double-digit percentage increases. 

Rental fraud caused total reported losses of £35.64m over the three years.

A Just Landlords spokesperson says: “The consistent drop in rental fraud reports over the last three years is incredibly positive news for the rental sector.

“However, the sharp rise in financial losses shows we cannot afford to be complacent. Rental fraud is a dual-victim crime; it leaves innocent tenants financially impacted while dragging down the reputation of honest, hardworking housing providers. These scammers are not real landlords; they are sophisticated identity thieves hijacking the credibility of a vital industry.

“Landlords and tenants must both treat verification as the absolute bedrock of any agreement.

“Landlords can help reduce the risk of fraud by protecting deposits through official government schemes and providing clear tenancy documentation, helping to ensure the sector continues to provide a vital service.”