Having a roof over your head is one of life’s basic needs and with affordable housing being in such short supply, we need to make sure it goes to those people that really need it. We know that there are people who abuse it and commit tenancy fraud. Last year, we had 544 cases of suspected tenancy fraud reported to us, resulting in 136 homes being recovered and reallocated to people in genuine housing need.
Tenancy fraud takes various forms and includes lying to get a property, sub-letting and ‘hoodwinking’ others into paying rent; making a healthy profit for someone, whilst leaving the ‘tenant’ with little or no guarantee of safety or security. Quite simply, it is morally wrong and against the law, carrying big penalties.
We are committed to providing safe and secure housing and that’s why we are closing down fraudsters. We have specialist teams who work with the police and local authorities to investigate reports, prosecute individuals, and recover properties.
To do this well, we need your help. If you suspect someone of committing
tenancy fraud tell us so that we can do something about it. Reporting it is easy:
- Complete a short and simple form
- Or call our Customer Support Hub on 0800 678 1221.
Your report will be taken in confidence and we will not use or share your details with anyone without your permission. So, if you suspect it – ‘Shop it to stop it!’
Additionally, if you think you are in one of our properties illegally – contact us to talk about your options as we may be able to help.