Tendring District Council (TDC) is conducting a tenancy audit to ensure that council homes are genuinely allocated to those entitled to them.

These checks, performed regularly by a dedicated fraud team, aim to identify properties that, for example, have been abandoned, sub-let or falsely claimed.

The checks are also carried out to ensure that tenants are in receipt of the correct discount or benefit, for example Single Person Discount, Local Government Support Grant or Housing Benefit, where applicable.

In recent years, more than 60 properties have been reclaimed from individuals who falsely claimed entitlement and these homes have been reassigned to families on the waiting list who genuinely need them.

For instance, one case involved a tenant who had not lived in his property for over two years, he was found to be living elsewhere and using the Council property for storage and to access benefits fraudulently.

As a result of this investigation, legal action was taken and the property was taken back by the council and provided to a family in need.

Councillor Andy Baker, TDC Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, said tenancy reviews are important for protecting legitimate council tenants.

“We are proud of our area and the services we provide to our thousands of council tenants, most of whom are model residents legitimately housed by us,” he stated.

“Unfortunately, a small minority try to exploit the system, depriving families in need of a home and costing TDC – and taxpayers – to provide temporary accommodation.

“If you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to fear, but we do not tolerate fraud.

“If someone is acting illegally, we will find out and take action – while we also want to ensure homes have not been abandoned, something which could be depriving local people of a much-needed home.”

If you suspect someone of committing tenancy fraud, contact TDC’s fraud hotline online at www.tendringdc.gov.uk/content/fraud, email fraud.hotline@tendringdc.gov.uk or call Freephone 0800 169 7004.

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