Council launches key amnesty to reduce housing fraud
Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council is acting against tenancy fraud with the launch of a key amnesty in January.
The initiative aims to recover council homes being used illegally so they can be relet to others in need of social housing.
From Thursday 2 January, individuals who believe they are committing tenancy fraud can return their keys to the council’s reception at Campus East in Welwyn Garden City during opening hours. By doing so, individuals will avoid any legal action being taken for any tenancy fraud committed. A member of the council’s Neighbourhoods team will be available to process the handover.
This amnesty runs until Friday 31 January 2025. After this date, enforcement action will resume, and offenders could face prosecution, with penalties including up to two years in prison and fines of up to £50,000.
Tenancy fraud happens when council properties are not used as intended. This includes cases where properties are sublet to individuals not listed on the tenancy agreement or not used as the tenant’s primary residence. In some cases, properties are left empty as a tenant is living somewhere else. Tenancy fraud also occurs when false applications are made to succeed a tenancy or to obtain a Right to Buy.
In recent months, the council has been addressing tenancy fraud through proactive investigations. Currently, the council is dealing with eleven active cases of subletting and non-occupation, demonstrating the scale of the issue.
Councillor Gemma Moore, Executive Member for Housing, said:
“Housing fraud is a serious issue across the country, and it’s no different here in Welwyn Hatfield. It takes away homes from those who are in need of social housing. This key amnesty is an opportunity for people to come forward and do the right thing - without facing legal consequences during January.”
If you have any questions about the key amnesty, please call 01707 357000 or email contact-whc@welhat.gov.uk.
If You have information about someone you think is breaking the rules, please report it in confidence by emailing tenancyfraud@welhat.gov.uk.
The key amnesty excludes those that have already been made aware that they are being investigated for suspected tenancy fraud.