Tenancy fraud

Tenancy fraud occurs when someone uses false information or deception to get or keep a home that they’re not entitled to. This includes:

• Subletting: Renting out your home or part of it without our permission.
• Not living in the property: Not using your home as your main residence.
• False information: Providing incorrect details to get a tenancy.
• Succession fraud: Illegally claiming the right to take over a tenancy after someone’s death.
• Right to Buy fraud: Giving false information to buy your home at a discount.

We take a zero-tolerance approach to tenancy fraud, and we work hard to make sure that our homes are being used properly. Here’s how:

• We carefully check the information provided by anyone applying for a new tenancy or a transfer to another home. This includes verifying documents and running checks with credit agencies and government databases.
• We conduct tenancy audits to ensure that our homes are being used and occupied correctly. This may involve visiting your home and confirming your details.
• We encourage everyone—residents, contractors, and the community—to report any suspicious activity. If you suspect fraud, you can report it anonymously to us.

If we suspect tenancy fraud, we will investigate it thoroughly but fairly. Here’s what you can expect:

• Our staff are fully trained to detect and investigate fraud.
• If you report fraud or are part of an investigation, we’ll ensure that all details are kept confidential.
• We may share information with other agencies (like the police or local authorities) to help detect and tackle fraud, but we always comply with data protection laws (GDPR).

If tenancy fraud is found, we will take action, which could include:

• Civil or criminal action: We may take the matter to court, and in serious cases, work with the police or local authorities.
• Recovering losses: If we lose money because of fraud, we will work to recover these losses from the person responsible.
• Supporting victims: If you are a victim or witness to tenancy fraud, we will support you and ensure your safety, following our anti-social behaviour policy.

If you think someone is committing tenancy fraud, let us know. You can report it anonymously, and all reports will be taken seriously. Make sure we always have accurate information about your household.