Safety Tips

Your safety is our priority. Follow these guidelines for a secure experience.

Why Safety Matters to Us

At Roomer Ireland, your safety and security are at the heart of everything we do. We understand that finding accommodation and roommates involves sharing personal information and meeting new people, which is why we've implemented comprehensive safety measures to protect our community.

Our Safety Commitments
  • All users undergo identity verification
  • Admin approval for all property listings
  • Secure, encrypted messaging system
  • Easy reporting system for inappropriate behavior
Building Trust Together

We believe that safety is a shared experience. While we provide the tools and verification systems, following these safety guidelines will help ensure everyone has a positive and secure experience on our platform.

Meeting People Safely

Before Meeting
  • Message first: Always communicate through our platform before meeting in person
  • Verify identity: Check their verified status and ask questions about the property/situation
  • Tell someone: Inform a trusted friend or family member about your meeting
  • Daytime meetings: Schedule viewings during daylight hours when possible
During the Meeting
  • Public first: Meet in a public place before going to view the property
  • Bring a friend: Consider bringing someone with you, especially for evening viewings
  • Stay connected: Keep your phone charged and share your location with someone
  • Trust your instincts: If something feels wrong, leave immediately
  • Verify documents: Ask to see proof of ownership or tenancy rights
Red Flags to Watch For
  • Pressure to meet immediately or urgently
  • Reluctance to provide verification or references
  • Asking for money upfront before viewing
  • Insisting on meeting in isolated locations
  • Stories that don't add up or inconsistent information
  • Refusing to communicate through our platform

Messaging Safety

Safe Communication Practices
  • Use our platform: Keep all initial conversations within Roomer's messaging system
  • Professional tone: Maintain respectful and professional communication
  • Ask relevant questions: Focus on accommodation and roommate compatibility topics
  • Be cautious with personal details: Share personal information gradually as trust builds
  • Document important agreements: Keep records of any arrangements made
What to Avoid
  • Don't share financial information (bank details, passwords)
  • Don't send money before viewing or meeting in person
  • Don't share overly personal details too quickly
  • Don't ignore inappropriate or pushy messages
  • Don't continue conversations that make you uncomfortable
Why Use Our Messaging System?
  • All messages are encrypted and secure
  • Complete conversation history is preserved
  • Easy reporting system for inappropriate content
  • Both users are verified before messaging

Information Sharing Guidelines

Safe to Share Early
  • First name only
  • General occupation/study field
  • Age range
  • Preferred areas (general)
  • Budget range
  • Lifestyle preferences
Share After Building Trust
  • Full name
  • Phone number
  • Personal email
  • Specific workplace/college
  • Social media profiles
  • Current address
Never Share
  • Credit card details
  • Bank account information
  • Passwords or PINs
  • PPS/Social security numbers
  • Passport/ID numbers
  • Overly personal details

Financial Safety

Legitimate Transactions
  • Always view the property before making any payments
  • Insist on proper rental agreements or contracts
  • Request receipts for all payments made
  • Use secure payment methods with transaction records
  • Verify the person has the right to rent the property
Avoid Scams
  • Never send money for properties you haven't seen
  • Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true
  • Don't pay large deposits without meeting in person
  • Avoid cash-only transactions with no documentation
  • Don't give money to "secure" a viewing or hold a property

Reporting and Getting Help

When to Report
  • Inappropriate or offensive messages
  • Harassment or persistent unwanted contact
  • Requests for money before meeting
  • Suspicious or fake profiles
  • Fraudulent property listings
  • Any behavior that makes you feel unsafe
How to Get Help

Report through the platform:

Use the report button on any message, profile, or listing to alert our team immediately.

Contact our safety team:

Email: info.roomerireland@gmail.com

Response time: Within 24 hours

Emergency situations:

If you feel you are in immediate danger, contact local emergency services (999 in Ireland) first, then report to us.

Additional Safety Resources

External Resources
  • Gardaí (Irish Police): 999 or 112
  • Citizens Information: citizensinformation.ie
  • Residential Tenancies Board: rtb.ie
  • Free Legal Advice Centres: flac.ie
Remember

Trust your instincts: If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't.

Take your time: Don't rush into decisions or feel pressured.

Stay informed: Keep up with our safety updates and community guidelines.