I've never rented anything in France, but I think you have to tell her about deposit changes. Even in Geneva normally if you want to rent a room, they ask just for 1 month deposit (in case with appartement - 3 months).

Maybe she just wants some cash? :-0

In general people only ask for 1 month deposit for flatshares.

I'd be very careful with that. Do you know her? Have you visited the flat? Do you have a formal contract? Ask her if she's ok to receive only one month deposit plus pay the rent in advance. This should be good enough.

If you still want to go ahead and pay 2 months deposit, get a formal contract, written receipt and a copy of her passport.

Thanks y'all. Having done a bit of investigation I think it might be a scam - am making a few demands and we'll see how quickly she disappears!

Please please please - NEVER hand over money without a written and signed contract, and of course never without having seen the flat and the person.

I am currently subrenting a flat (for 3 months) in Geneva, and we paid a bit under one month's rent as a deposit, and the rent in advance. We wrote a small "contract" together with the tenant on the spot, printed it, signed it, and then I went to the bank and transferred the money to her bank account (that's another thing - only transfer money on a bank account, never over western union).

Unfortunately too many people try to take advantage of desperate people looking for a room/flat in a hurry....

take care!