What is verification?
Users can choose to verify their identity and undergo a background check to confirm they are who they claim to be. This process helps ensure they have no criminal history and are not listed on any terrorist watchlists or sex offender registries.
To complete verification, users must provide personal details, a photo of their government-issued ID, and a selfie. This information is securely checked against multiple independent databases and data sources.
Verification is available for private landlords and roommates with rooms or entire properties for rent (note: real estate agents and brokers are not currently eligible), as well as for those looking for a place to live.
Verified users will automatically have a verification checkmark and status displayed on their ads and profile.
How does the background check work?
As part of our verification process, users undergo a background check which checks to confirm they have no serious criminal convictions and that they are not listed on any terrorist watchlists or sex offender registries.
We define serious convictions as offenses including, but not limited to, fraud, violent crimes (such as assault), abuse, and theft. Minor infractions - such as traffic violations or parking offenses - are not considered in this screening.
Why is verification needed?
SpareRoom already takes significant steps to try and protect you against the fake landlord and tenant scams that plague most other websites — both filtering out scams before they can get on the site and warning users if one occasionally slips through.
Verification often forms a key part of the rental process and also helps give you that extra level of confidence when dealing with people you've met online.
How do I get verified on SpareRoom?
The service is just $15 and verification lasts 12 months.