Tenancy fraud

Tenancy fraud is when someone is occupying social housing illegally. Understand the different types of fraud and how you can help. 

Quick Links:

  1. What type of tenancy do I have?
  2. Subletting
  3. Ending a tenancy 
  4. Other information

Tenancy fraud, also known as housing fraud, is illegal. The four most common types are:

  • subletting your home without permission
  • not telling the truth when applying for a home
  • living in a home after someone has died without the right to do so
  • selling your home’s keys for a one-off payment.

What happens if I commit tenancy fraud?


Housing fraud is a serious criminal offence. If you are caught, you could:

  • lose your home
  • lose the right to future social housing
  • pay a fine
  • go to prison for up to two years.

Social housing is limited. There’s not enough for everyone who needs it. It’s so important that those who are living in social housing are legally entitled to it.  

What are we doing to tackle tenancy fraud?

We are committed to tackling illegal occupancy. We work with other landlords and statutory agencies to detect fraud in our homes. If we discover fraud, we will evict tenants and take legal action.

How can I help?

If you suspect someone is committing tenancy fraud, please contact us. Your information will be kept confidential. It could make a huge difference to someone in need. 

tenancy-fraud, a court hammer with financial reports and calculators