Spotting the signs of tenancy fraud
Tenancy fraud happens when someone is dishonest to get or keep a home they are not entitled to.
It can mean a home is not available to someone who needs it. It is also a crime and a breach of tenancy agreement.
whg has a zero-tolerance approach to tenancy fraud. We investigate every report and suspected case. If we find evidence of fraud, we will take action. This may include taking legal steps to recover the home, seeking to recover money made through fraud and supporting a criminal prosecution where possible. Each case is carefully considered and action is based on the evidence.
What does tenancy fraud look like?
Possible signs include:
- Someone other than the named resident seems to live in the home, while the resident has moved out.
- A home is being advertised or offered to rent without whg’s permission.
- Someone has been paid to hand over the keys or tenancy to another person.
- False information may have been given in a housing, succession or Right to Buy application.
These signs do not prove that fraud is happening. For example, seeing visitors or family members at a home does not mean there is a problem.
What should I do?
- If you are concerned, tell us what you have seen and when. You do not need to investigate it yourself or speak to anyone involved.
- Please do not put yourself at risk or confront anyone.
- You can report a concern anonymously by calling 0300 555 6666 or emailing enquiries@whgrp.co.uk.
What will whg do?
We investigate all reports carefully. We may check information, speak to people or visit the home. We may also work with local councils, the police and other organisations.
We consider each case on its own facts. If we find evidence of tenancy fraud, we may take legal action to recover the home and refer the case for prosecution where necessary.
