Tenancy Fraud Kent Forum Launch 19 th June

Tenancy Fraud Kent Forum Launch 19 th June 2017 Katrina Robinson MBE – Optivo Chair of the Tenancy Fraud Forum

What is Tenancy Fraud? Ø Ø Ø Ø Subletting (even if to a family member) Abandonment False succession claims Misrepresentation Key selling Right to Buy/Acquire Shared ownership

The Cost of Fraud l l l l Building costs for development - £ 150 k per property Temporary accommodation costs Affordable Tenancies Social impact issues Related criminal activities and benefit fraud Complaints Governance

Good for the Fraudster l l l Tax free profits of up to £ 20, 000 pa Free repairs and reinvestment Free gas servicing Little or no investigation into the fraud Little or no chance of being arrested or charged/convicted

Social Reasons to Tackle It • • Long wait for transfers/mutual exchange Lack of community Overcrowding creates disrepair Social landlords are not a high interest savings bank • We can’t turn a blind eye to criminal offences in our properties • Unlawful Profit Orders - £ can be used to better the lives of tenants

Issues for the Sector • • Conflicting priorities for Housing Officers Knowledge and skill Funding Not considered an issue in area Tenancy fraud seen to be acceptable Data protection Intention to Return

What is TFF? • • Established in April 2012 Over 800 individual members Membership is free Shared knowledge and joint working dramatically increases success rates.

Partnership Working • Established Regional TFF Groups • Housing Associations and local authorities • Data sharing • Expert speakers at regional meetings • Training opportunities • Document pro-formas

Conference Thursday, 26 th October - £ 99! London Borough of Camden Contact us at: Ø info@tenancyfraudforum. org. uk