Section 171 of the Housing Act 1996 makes it an offence to withhold information that we reasonably require to assess your application, or to provide false information that leads to your gaining a tenancy. We will take appropriate action (including legal action) against anyone who gains a tenancy through knowingly providing false information.

This may mean you lose your home. A person guilty of an offence under this section is liable on summary conviction to a fine. Legal proceedings may begin if:
 

  • Any false information is given, or information withheld, on an application form to appear on the Housing Register.
     
  • Any false information is given, or information withheld, in response to subsequent review letters or other update mechanisms.
     

  • Any false information is given, or information withheld, by applicants during a review.
     

You must tell us if there are any changes in your circumstances e.g. change of address, family composition or if you, or a member of your household have purchased a property, so that we can reassess your application and if necessary make changes to your band and priority date.