Subletting a social tenancy is a criminal offence, and it's not a victimless crime.

We take illegal subletting very seriously. Subletting your social tenancy became a criminal offence in October 2013. Since then, we've recovered over 400 properties that were subject to tenancy fraud.

We've also brought a number of successful criminal prosecutions that have resulted in tenants receiving criminal convictions and more than £120,000 in fines and money judgment orders. This work means that  we've been able to offer secure housing to over 500 people in genuine need.

Impact on taxes

The cost to the taxpayer is huge too. Keeping people in temporary accommodation while they wait for a home amounts to £1.8 billion and helps keep over one million people on council waiting lists.

Shared owners and leaseholders

Any type of subletting of shared ownership homes is prohibited. This includes via websites such as Airbnb or other short-term letting agents. Leaseholders should always check their lease if they are considering any form of sub-letting as some agreements ban sub-letting entirely.

What to do if someone is subletting

If you suspect a Peabody property is being illegally sublet, please contact us – anonymously if you prefer – via the form below or email illegalsubletting@peabody.org.uk.

If you would like to speak to someone about your concerns please call Peabody Direct and ask to speak to someone in the Tenancy Fraud team.

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