31/08/2023
We all know there’s not enough affordable housing in London, but did you know that tenancy fraud is making the problem worse? In fact, the National Fraud Authority has estimated that tenancy fraud costs taxpayers around £900 million each year.
If you haven’t heard of tenancy fraud, it refers to people living in our homes without the right to do so. It can take many different forms, from subletting to selling keys – but however it’s done, it’s in breach of our contract and the law.
We take tenancy fraud seriously and are committed to tackling it in our homes. That’s why our Community Safeguarding Team will be running a ‘key amnesty’ this October.
If you’re breaking the law by cheating others out of living in our homes, we want you to hand your keys back. You won’t face legal action, we won’t ask any questions, and you’ll be helping to make sure the home go to somebody who really needs it.
Should you wish to return your keys, please contact the Housing Team housingteam@poplarharca.co.uk and they will help complete the necessary paperwork, so you can give the property back. You can also call on 0800 035 1991.
On the other hand, if you get caught committing tenancy fraud, you could face legal action with fines of up to £50,000 and even a possible prison sentence.
If you know someone is committing tenancy fraud, please speak to our Community Safeguarding Team through the details above, and we’ll investigate. If we’re successful in getting the home back based on the information you’ve provided, we’ll give you £1,000 as a thank you for coming forward.