Report tenancy fraud

Over 1.2 million households are currently on the waiting list for social housing across the UK, and people who commit tenancy fraud take homes away from people in genuine housing need.

What is tenancy fraud?

Around 50,000 homes are unlawfully sublet in the UK, this is called tenancy fraud and can result in up to two years in prison and a fine of up to £50,000.

Tenancy fraud is a crime and here we explain the different types to be aware of.

Someone rents out their home without asking their landlord’s permission.

Someone gets a home by giving false information on their housing application.

Where the person living in the property dies and someone takes over the tenancy, which they are not entitled to.

Someone pays a resident to pass on their keys for payment.

A resident stops using their tenancy as their main or principal home and then lets another person live there without permission from their landlord.

A customer or resident makes a Right to Buy or Right to Acquire application and gives false information in their application.

How do I report tenancy fraud?

If you think you know someone that is committing tenancy fraud you can report this to us by calling 0300 555 0600 between 8am-6pm Monday to Friday and 10am-6pm on Wednesdays, or completing the form here.

Any reports can be made confidentially.