Housing fraud

What housing fraud is and how to report it.

We are working to stop housing fraud to make sure that homes are fairly given to the people who need them.

Housing fraud includes:

  • not telling the truth when applying for a property, for example about how many people live there
  • the named tenant permanently living somewhere else
  • sub-letting a property without permission (this is a criminal offence) – find out when permission is needed to take in a lodger
  • living in a property after someone has died without the right to do so

We will investigate all reports of housing fraud, and take action against offenders. People who have made money from unlawful subletting will be made to pay this back if they are convicted.

Report housing fraud

Contact us by email or phone to report suspected housing fraud.

You will need to let us know:

  • your name and contact details – this will be kept confidential, but you can choose to make an anonymous report if you prefer
  • the address of the property involved in the suspected fraud
  • why you suspect housing fraud, including when you last saw the tenant, and any other details about who is using or visiting the property
  • if you are willing to make a statement about the fraud

Phone

0800 188 4000 or 0113 376 0410
(Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9am to 5pm; Wednesday 10am to 5pm)

Email

tenancyfraud@leeds.gov.uk