The fight against fraud

Crime watch

The government wants to make the unlawful sub-letting of social homes a criminal offence. So what are the challenges and will its proposals bring an end to the practice? Nick Duxbury investigates

Subletting crackdown to criminalise tenancy fraud

The government is proposing to create a new criminal offence of tenancy fraud to crack down on the subletting of social housing.

The wrong side of the law

Subletting tenants could face jail

The government is considering introducing prison sentences for tenants who sublet their homes, according to reports.

Public body fears hold back subletting plans

The government is holding back from giving housing associations the same powers to tackle subletting as local authorities due to fears over their status.

Branch out via Europe

Social landlords creating companies to run extra services must still note EU procurement rules, says Rebecca Rees, partner at Trowers & Hamlins

Battling fraud

New proposals to tackle sub-letting should include grounds for possession to bring stock back into use, says Colin Hammond, head of housing litigation at Penningtons Solicitors

Caught out

Social landlords should consider instructing investigators when they suspect fraud, say Samantha Darlington and Neil Lawlor

Empty homes requests

A new ruling and proposed changes to the Freedom of Information Act could open the floodgates to squatters, says Emma Duke, associate solicitor atAnthony Collins Solicitors

Sentenced to life without a home

Imprisonment and homelessness are among the more traumatic experiences that can befall an individual. All too often, the two are inextricably linked.