A Nottingham resident has been handed a financial penalty exceeding £12,000 following a prosecution for social housing tenancy fraud.
The case centred on the illegal subletting of a council property in Aspley, with the individual pleading guilty to violations under the Prevention of Social Housing Fraud Act 2013.
The unauthorised subletting occurred during two distinct periods spanning from March 2022 to December 2025.
After Nottingham City Council’s investigation and a formal caution interview, the tenant relinquished the property.
The council subsequently reclaimed the home, enabling its allocation to someone with legitimate housing requirements.
An Unlawful Profit Order was simultaneously pursued to recover the financial gains obtained through the illegal subletting.
The court mandated a comprehensive financial penalty of £12,398.47, payable in instalments over 24 months.
The total sum comprised a fine of £192, court costs amounting to £808.29, a victim surcharge of £77, and an Unlawful Profit Order of £11,321.18.
Councillor Jay Hayes, the Executive Member for Housing and Planning, stated that Nottingham City Council treats tenancy fraud with the utmost seriousness and called upon members of the public to report any concerns regarding potential tenancy fraud.
Hayes emphasised that where evidence exists of social housing being misused, the council would investigate thoroughly and implement appropriate measures.
The councillor highlighted that social housing represents a critical public resource that must remain accessible to those with genuine housing needs, and that the unlawful subletting of council properties denies other households the chance to secure affordable accommodation while potentially misusing public funds and valuable housing stock.
Tenancy fraud has the potential to diminish the supply of affordable housing available to Nottingham residents and can place additional strain on housing services and public expenditure, including the requirement to provide temporary accommodation for those in need.