Rental fraud cases across England, Wales and the Crown Dependencies have fallen by 18% over the past three financial years, although the average amount lost by victims has risen sharply, according to new research from Just Landlords.

The research, based on Freedom of Information data from Action Fraud and the Metropolitan Police, found that reported cases fell from 4,982 in 2023/24 to 4,092 in 2025/26.

Derbyshire recorded the largest fall, with cases down 64%, followed by Bedfordshire at 61% and Wiltshire and Dyfed-Powys, both down 57%. However, Warwickshire saw reports increase by 19%, while Devon and Cornwall recorded a 16% rise.

Clark Ross, Managing Director of Just Landlords, said: “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.”

Despite the reduction in reported cases, total financial losses increased by 20%, from £10.7m to £12.8m. The average loss per victim rose by 46% to £3,138.

Ross added: “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.”