A dozen scammers illegally subletting social housing for profit at the expense of families on waiting lists have had their tenancies revoked in a Haringey Council crackdown.
Investigators found that the registered tenants of the 12 council and housing association homes were living elsewhere and renting out the properties to others – an offence that could land them up to two years in prison.
The homes have now been freed up to families in temporary accommodation or on waiting lists to move into, also saving taxpayers £216,000 a year.
The council’s investigations follow a one-off tenancy fraud amnesty last year, which offered those breaching the rules the chance to hand in their keys and avoid prosecution – with 25 properties recovered.
A change in the law in 2013 means that tenancy fraud is now a criminal offence – with a prison sentence or fine of up to £5,000 for those who break the law.
Councillor Jason Arthur, Cabinet Member for Resources and Culture, said: “Subletting your council home for personal profit isn’t just illegal – it puts extra pressure on the social housing system and stops families who really need a home from finding one.
“We were clear when we held our amnesty last year that we would come down hard on those who didn’t take the opportunity to come clean.
“These investigations demonstrate that we’re taking action, and we’ll always use every power we have to prosecute those we suspect are flouting the rules.”
A 2011 Audit Commission report estimated that around 90,000 social homes nationwide were subject to some form of tenancy fraud.
The council’s fraud team receives around four tip-offs of illegal sub-lets every week, and works closely with Homes for Haringey and other providers to look into any fraud claims.
To anonymously report any suspicions of tenancy fraud, email fraudcall@haringey.gov.uk or call Fraudwatch on freephone 0500 500 777.
