Hillingdon Council has launched a six-week key amnesty aimed at tackling tenancy fraud and freeing up council homes for residents in genuine need.
Running until 23 June, the initiative gives tenants who are unlawfully occupying a council property the chance to return their keys without facing criminal charges. The council is urging individuals who are illegally subletting, have abandoned their homes, or are otherwise misusing their tenancy to #DoTheRightThing and step forward.
Last year, Hillingdon’s counter fraud team recovered 112 council homes, with a combined value of £7.8 million. These properties have since been made available to those on the housing waiting list.
Tenants returning keys must visit the Civic Centre’s main reception, bringing photo ID and completing a short form detailing the property’s address and condition. Homes must be vacated before handover.
The council also encourages residents to help identify suspected tenancy fraud, which may include:
‣ Unfamiliar occupants in a known council property
‣ A property that appears abandoned
‣ A tenant referring to a private landlord instead of the council
‣ A relative or friend moving in after the original tenant has passed away
Cllr Martin Goddard, Hillingdon Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance and Transformation, said: “We are determined to create safe and strong communities and prevent homelessness.
“Tenancy fraud is a serious issue that limits housing availability for those in genuine need and puts additional strain on public resources due to the cost of providing temporary accommodation.
“While most residents live in their homes legally, some do not. It’s unfair for properties to remain empty because tenants have moved in with partners, live elsewhere, or illegally sublet their council homes.
“The amnesty applies only to tenants who come forward during the six-week period. If this campaign prompts someone to report a neighbour suspected of tenancy fraud, we will investigate as usual and pursue prosecution if we find they’re committing fraud.”
