Landlord asking me to pay rent in cash

So, I went to view a few properties on Saturday as I’m moving to a new area for work. I viewed two house shares and my partner came with me for a second opinion. Both places were good but the second was clearly the better choice: more room, cheaper, less house mates and better amenities in the house. 

So after lunch I decided to contact the landlord about the second property and he told me the next steps which included putting down a deposit and giving him work references.

The landlord advised he would sent a contract over next week as he’s on holiday and can’t create the contract on his phone which is understandable. However, the weird thing is the landlord wants me to pay in cash. 

I don’t believe I’m being scammed as my workplace said he’s reached out for a reference and I can see he actually owns the property by looking up the deed on the government website.

However my anxiety is getting the best of me. I’m getting worried over the paying rent in cash. People have reassured me as long as I get a receipt from him it will be alright.

My anxiety and fear or new situations like this make me become fixated on what I’m worrying about. I know I should just wait till he sends the contract later this week but I’m still worried.

I’m not sure if I’m asking for advice or reassurance. I think I mainly just wanted to vent this issue that’s been on my mind lol 

Parents
  • Landlord hiding from the tax man....

    Seriously, though, you need a proper contract, especially if you're paying the landlord direct and not going through an estate agent. If/when you get the contract, see if you can find someone to check it over. There are places that have free advice sessions with legal people, in libraries etc, so maybe see if you can find anything in your area. I can't see the cash itself being a problem, but you need to know your rights with contracts and receipts.

Reply
  • Landlord hiding from the tax man....

    Seriously, though, you need a proper contract, especially if you're paying the landlord direct and not going through an estate agent. If/when you get the contract, see if you can find someone to check it over. There are places that have free advice sessions with legal people, in libraries etc, so maybe see if you can find anything in your area. I can't see the cash itself being a problem, but you need to know your rights with contracts and receipts.

Children
  • I‘m going to have some family look over the contract as they‘re more knowledgeable than me !! I also voiced some of my concerns to the landlord yesterday and he‘s been really understanding and is accommodating my wishes to make the thing less stressful for myself Thumbsup