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Tenancy fraud

We want to do the best for all our customers and ensure that homes are available for the people who need them the most. This is why we work hard to prevent and address tenancy fraud, learn more below.

What is tenancy fraud?

Tenancy fraud happens when someone provides false information to obtain their home, sublets their home to someone else, or does not use it as their only or main home. There are many different types of tenancy fraud but these are the most common: 

  • Unlawful subletting
    Where a customer rents out part or the whole of their home without the landlord's knowledge or permission.
  • Wrongly claimed succession
    Where the main tenant dies, and someone provides incorrect or false information to try and take over the tenancy when they are not entitled to.
  • Key selling
    Where a customer is paid to pass on their keys to a person, in return for a one-off payment.
  • Obtaining housing by deception
    Where a customer obtains a home by giving false information on their housing application.
  • Unlawful assignment
    Where a customer stops using their home as their only or principal home, allowing another person to live there without our permission.



Tenancy fraud reduces the number of homes available for people who genuinely need them. It is illegal and a serious breach of the tenancy agreement.

Anyone found to have committed tenancy fraud may face criminal penalties, including fines, imprisonment, loss of their home, and responsibility for any associated legal costs.

We take all reports of suspected tenancy fraud seriously. Every report is handled confidentially and with care. Our investigations may involve working with partner organisations such as local authorities, the police, and the Department for Work and Pensions.

Because of privacy and legal requirements, we may not always be able to share detailed updates, but please be assured that every report is reviewed and acted on appropriately.

How do I report tenancy fraud?

If you think someone in your area may be subletting their home, living elsewhere, or suspect any of the other types of tenancy fraud, please report this to us in confidence by: