Tenancy Fraud

What is tenancy fraud?

Unlawful subletting – is where a tenant lets out their housing association home without the knowledge or permission of their landlord. They often continue to pay the rent for the property directly to their landlord, but charge the person they are subletting to a much higher rate. It is unlawful and unfair to sublet and to profit from a property which could be given to someone legally entitled to occupy it.

Key selling – is where a tenant is paid to pass on their keys in return for a one-off payment

Obtaining housing by deception – is where a person gets a council or housing association home by giving false information in their application.

Wrongly claimed succession – is where a tenant dies and someone tries to take over or succeed the tenancy who is not entitled to do so. For example, they might say they lived with the tenant before they died, when in fact they were living elsewhere.

Why is it important to tackle tenancy fraud?

There isn’t enough social housing to meet the needs of people who genuinely need it. We have to make the best use of the housing that is available ensuring that it is occupied by those who are legally entitled to do so. People waiting for social housing will have to wait even longer if homes continue to be occupied by people who have no right to be there.

What does Grand Union do to tackle tenancy fraud?

We are committed to tackling unlawful subletting and illegal occupancy and will take legal action, where necessary, to recover possession of illegally occupied properties. We work with other social landlords and statutory agencies to detect fraud where the law requires.

What can you do to help?

If you suspect someone is a tenancy cheat, please let us know. It could make a big difference to people in real need. You can report your suspicions to our Customer Contact team.

All information received will be taken seriously and treated in the strictest confidence.