When tenancy fraud happens, it can take a home away from someone who needs it most. This isn’t fair. We are committed to making sure our homes are used properly and to taking action if we find any misuse. We take a zero-tolerance approach to tenancy fraud and are committed to preventing, identifying and investigating misuse of our homes.
Tenancy fraud
Tenancy fraud is when someone lies, hides important information or breaks the rules to get or keep a social or affordable home. Sometimes it might not seem serious, but it has a big impact on others waiting for a home.
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Giving false information to get a home
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Not living in the home as their main home, or letting someone else live there while they live somewhere else
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Renting out the home without permission (this includes Airbnb or short stays)
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Passing the tenancy to someone else without approval
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Claiming the tenancy after someone has died when they should not
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Selling keys or letting someone else use the home
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Committing fraud when buying a home through Right to Buy or Right to Acquire
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Lying to get a joint tenancy or shared ownership
This does not include cases where Accent has given written permission for a lodger or subletting arrangement.
If we think something may be wrong, we will look into it carefully and fairly.
We may:
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Carry out checks, such as speaking with neighbours
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Look at information and data we already have
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Investigate further if needed, including checks with the National Anti-Fraud Network (NAFN) or other trusted sources
We will also:
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Share information about tenancy fraud so people understand the risks
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Encourage people to report concerns
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Work closely with local councils and partner organisations
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Share information legally to help prevent fraud and reduce crime
We all have a part to play in making sure homes go to the right people.
If something doesn’t seem right, it’s okay to speak up. You won’t get into trouble for raising a concern. By reporting tenancy fraud, you are helping make sure homes are there for the people who need them most. Your support really makes a difference.
We want to make reporting easy and stress-free. You can contact us in a way that suits you:
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Through our website
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By email
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By phone
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By text message
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In writing
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In person
When you report a concern, we will:
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Respond as quickly as we can
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Look into the situation carefully and fairly
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Keep your details private and confidential
If tenancy fraud is identified, we may take action to recover the property and, where appropriate, work with other organisations to pursue legal action. This helps ensure social housing remains available for people who genuinely need it.
Benefit fraud
If you think someone may be committing benefit fraud, you can also report this directly to:
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The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
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Your local council’s Housing Benefit team
We may also share concerns with the right organisation so they can take action.