The Housing Executive (HE) is stepping up its battle with the housing cheats – and is appealing for the public’s help.
Each year around 150 homes are recovered by the HE which is to carry no-warning checks on properties with so-called “dole drops” high on the list.
Gerry Flynn, HE Director of Landlord Services, said most people applying or living in HE homes “play by the rules,” but “housing cheats don’t.”
He added: “They deprive those on the housing waiting list of homes they desperately need. They are guilty of housing fraud.”
Mr Flynn said the HE was committed to stamping out fraud and urged people to report any incidents of fraud or suspected fraud.
He said to make sure housing fraud did not happen, the HE would be actively carrying out checks against records including Housing Benefit and the electoral register as well as checking genuine tenants lived in its properties.
He added: “These checks will be ongoing and can happen at any time during the person’s tenancy, without any warning.
“But we also need the help of local communities where local residents see what’s going on in their neighbourhoods or may suspect someone is committing housing fraud.
“If you suspect someone is a Housing Cheat, let us know, either online at www.nihe.gov.uk or by telephoning 03448 920 900.
“It could make a real difference! Anything you tell us will be held in the strictest confidence. You do not need to leave your name or details.
“We will investigate your concerns and the necessary action will be taken.”
Mr Flynn said the signs to look out for include:
• Rent being collected from neighbours
* Tenants of a property keep changing
* A house lying empty for long periods and not being used by the tenant.
Anyone caught committing fraud is likely to lose their tenancy and could also. in some cases, be disqualified from applying for social housing in the future.
They could also be fined and possibly sent to prison.
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