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June 1 deadline to avoid prosecution for tenancy fraud
People who have committed tenancy fraud are being offered a chance to wipe the slate clean but they only have until the end of this month. Tenants who voluntarily hand back properties to Bristol City Council before June 1 will avoid prosecution.
Tenancy fraud keeps homes from people who need them most. The latest figures show that Bristol has around 500 households in temporary accommodation, with a total of 12,000 seeking long term accommodation on the housing register. Those who commit tenancy fraud reduce the amount of money being spent on key services.
If proven in court, people who commit tenancy fraud can end up with a criminal record, a prison sentence and a fine of up to £50,000.
Tenancy fraud includes:
- Giving false information when you apply for a council property
- Subletting a council property while you live somewhere else
- Giving false information about living in a property while you live somewhere else
- Not telling the council that you’re no longer occupying a property as your main home
- Giving false information when you apply to inherit a tenancy
- Giving false information when you apply to buy a council property
Two Bristol housing associations – United Communities and Solon South West Housing Association – are also taking part. Their tenants can end their tenancy directly by contacting the relevant association or by contacting the council. While tenants are encouraged to do this voluntarily, the council are also encouraging residents to anonymously report tenancy fraud if they have reason to suspect it is happening.
To find out more visit: www.bristol.gov.uk/ownup
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