Tenancy fraud

Tenancy fraud reduces the number of homes available for people who genuinely need them. We work hard to keep our communities fair, safe, and supported.

Below you’ll find information about what tenancy fraud is, how to spot it, and how to report concerns confidentially.

What is tenancy fraud?

Tenancy fraud happens when someone deliberately misuses a council home. Examples include:

• Unlawful subletting – Renting out all or part of a council property without permission
• Not living in the property (non occupation) – Keeping a tenancy but living somewhere else
• Providing false information – Giving incorrect details on a housing application to get a property
• Wrongful succession – Trying to take over a tenancy when you’re not legally entitled to
• Key selling – Passing on keys to someone else for money or favours
• Unlawful assignment – Transferring a tenancy without our consent
• Failing to tell us about a change – Not informing us when a tenant has moved out or passed away
• Tenancy fraud is a criminal offence and may result in prosecution

Why tackling tenancy fraud matters

Tenancy fraud prevents families in genuine need from accessing a safe, secure home.

By reporting concerns, you help us:

• Free up properties for people waiting for housing
• Keep neighbourhoods safe
• Ensure public resources are used fairly
• Protect the integrity of the housing system

How we prevent and detect fraud

We use several measures to protect council homes, including:

• Pre-tenancy checks – ID verification, financial checks, and previous landlord references
• Signed declarations – Confirming that information provided is true
• Regular tenancy audits
• Data matching – Comparing information with Council Tax, electoral registers and other sources
• Staff training – Ensuring our teams recognise warning signs
• Public awareness campaigns – Encouraging residents to report concerns

What happens if fraud is found

If we identify or confirm tenancy fraud, we may take:

• Legal action to recover the property
• Prosecution under relevant legislation
• Financial recovery of any unlawful profit gained
• Public communication of successful cases to deter future fraud

We always take a fair, proportionate, and lawful approach.

Reporting suspected tenancy fraud

If you think someone is committing tenancy fraud, please tell us.

Your information helps us protect homes for those who need them most.

How to report

You can report concerns:

• Confidentially online: Complete the tenancy management contact form
• By phone: 01455 238141 (ask for the Housing Team)
• In writing: Housing, Hinckley Hub, Rugby Road, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 0FR

All reports are handled sensitively and in line with our whistleblowing procedures.

Help us keep council homes for those who need them. If something doesn’t seem right, please let us know.

Your privacy

We treat all reports with strict confidentiality.

Information is only shared when legally allowed and where necessary to investigate or prevent fraud.

Last updated: 27/01/2026 11:05