The Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) has produced new guidance on behalf of the government to help landlords tackle the unlawful subletting and occupancy of social housing.

It is estimated that there are currently 50,000 properties which are fraudulently occupied, resulting in thousands of families being excluded from accessing social housing.

The publication of the guidance – called Tackling unlawful subletting and occupancy: Good practice guidance for social landlords - coincides with a co-ordinated government anti-fraud drive.

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The guidance emphasises the crucial role landlords play in tackling unlawful subletting and occupancy, and will enable housing professionals to demonstrate best use of existing housing to government and their local communities.

Sarah Webb, CIH Chief Executive, said: "Unlawful subletting and occupation of scarce affordable housing is worse than theft. In addition to the financial loss to the public, it also means some families are missing out on a decent, affordable home and all that this can bring.

"CIH believes that making the best use of existing housing is essential and I am delighted that we have been asked to write this guidance which provides landlords and local authorities with good practice and legal advice to support them to clamp down on these unlawful practices."

(GK/KMcA)