Council tenant fined for sub-letting a property to her family member

A woman has been convicted of tenancy fraud after failing to tell the District Council she was living elsewhere while renting her Council home to a family member.

Lisa Rawles, 54, from Sawston, pleaded guilty to the unlawful sub-let of the Council’s property in a hearing at Cambridge Magistrates Court.

Rawles was given a £100 fine and ordered to pay £1,500 costs and a £40 victim surcharge.

South Cambridgeshire District Council are making arrangements to repossess the misused property.

Council finance bosses say it is a reminder to Council tenants to ensure that every intended change in property use or a change of personal circumstances are discussed with the authority, as it may constitute a breach of the tenancy or a civil or criminal wrongdoing.

An investigation started after it came to the attention of a Council officer that the tenant was registered at another property for a service.

The officer checked the information provided to them by the tenant and found that individuals not named on the tenancy - but related to the tenant - appeared to be living at the property.

Cllr John Williams, Lead Member for Resources for South Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “This case highlights why it is so important that any resident speak to the Council if they wish to change the use or leave their tenancy and tell us if their circumstances change. We are always happy to assist residents and help them with their housing needs that they are entitled to but won’t tolerate anyone abusing the Council’s resources in an illegal manner. If you’re a tenant and your circumstances have changed, talk to us. If you don’t you could end-up in court.”

• Please use our online form to report suspected fraud.
• You can use this form to report housing fraud, Council Tax fraud, procurement fraud, right to buy fraud or grant fraud.