How It Works

"Verified" means
we were there.

The CasaMax verification badge isn't automated. A real member of our team physically visits, confirms, and approves every listed property before that badge appears.

What our team checks

Every property goes through a six-step process before it's visible to students.

Step 01

Landlord Identity

We confirm the landlord's national ID or passport, matching it against public records. Agents must also supply written authorisation from the property owner.

Step 02

Property Ownership

We request proof of ownership — deeds, utility bills, or a lease agreement in the landlord's name. A listing cannot be approved if ownership is unverifiable.

Step 03

Physical Address Confirmation

We confirm the listing address exists, is accessible, and matches the location shown in the app. Properties in listed locations that cannot be physically confirmed are rejected.

Step 04

Photos Match Reality

Our team verifies that the photos submitted are of the actual property being listed — not stock images or photos of a different unit.

Step 05

Condition & Safety

We assess whether the property is in a safe and habitable condition. Listings that pose clear safety risks (structural issues, lack of sanitation, security) are declined.

Step 06

Admin Approval

A CasaMax administrator reviews all evidence collected and either approves the listing — adding the Verified badge — or rejects it with feedback to the landlord.

What each badge means

Every listing shows one of these states. Here's exactly what each one tells you.

Verified

CasaMax Verified

A CasaMax team member visited this property, confirmed the landlord's identity and ownership, and approved the listing. The contact details you unlock are real.

Pending

Pending Verification

This listing was submitted by a CasaMax agent and is currently awaiting admin review. We have not yet confirmed all details. Exercise additional caution and visit in person before committing.

No Badge

Listed (Not Verified)

This listing has not yet been verified by our team. Details are as supplied by the landlord. Always conduct your own inspection before making any payment.

CasaMax verifies. You should inspect.

Our verification process significantly reduces the risk of fraudulent listings. However, CasaMax cannot guarantee the current condition of any property, or that all details remain accurate after verification. Properties change. Landlords change. Always do your own in-person checks before paying a deposit or signing a lease.

Your own due diligence checklist

Do these things before handing over any money.

1

Visit in person before you pay

Never pay a deposit or rent without physically viewing the room. Verified means we visited — you should too.

2

Confirm the landlord's identity

Ask to see the landlord's ID and a document confirming they own or have authority over the property (title deed, lease, or utility bill in their name).

3

Do not pay to strangers before viewing

Any landlord or agent asking for a deposit before you have seen the property in person is a red flag. Do not send money via EcoCash or bank transfer before viewing.

4

Get everything in writing

Agree on rent, included utilities, deposit amount, and lease duration in a written agreement signed by both parties before you move in.

5

Check the amenities yourself

Turn on the taps. Test the WiFi. Check that solar/borehole systems are operational. Do not assume anything listed is working unless you verify it on the day.

6

Report suspicious listings

If you find a listing you believe is fraudulent or inaccurate, report it immediately via our contact page. We investigate every report.

Common questions

Does a Verified badge guarantee the property is safe?+
Our verification significantly reduces risk — we confirm identity, ownership, and condition at the time of inspection. However, conditions can change after verification. Always inspect in person before committing.
What happens if I find a verified listing that's inaccurate?+
Report it immediately via our contact page or WhatsApp. We will re-inspect the property and may remove the Verified badge or delist it entirely pending review.
What is a Pending Verification listing?+
Listings uploaded by our field agents are visible to students but show a 'Pending Verification' badge until a CasaMax administrator reviews and approves them. We show these listings transparently rather than hiding them while review is underway.
Can I be scammed on a Verified listing?+
Our verification process is designed to make this extremely unlikely — we confirm the landlord's identity and ownership directly. However, no platform can guarantee against all fraud. Always verify the landlord's identity yourself at viewing, and never pay before you visit.
How long does verification take?+
Standard verification takes 24–72 hours after a landlord submits their documents. During busy intake periods this may take slightly longer.

Ready to find a verified room?

$2/month unlocks verified landlord contacts near your campus.