Sandwell Council has successfully prevented a number of fraudulent Right to Buy applications.
This has protected approximately £750,000 of public funds and ensured homes remain available for local people who need them most.
Following changes to the national Right to Buy scheme last year, which reduced the level of discount available to tenants, Sandwell Council experienced a significant surge in applications from tenants eager to benefit from the higher discount rates before the deadline. While the vast majority of applications were genuine, the council recognised the potential risk of fraudulent claims and took proactive steps to safeguard public assets.
Through the diligent work of the Home Ownership Unit and the Counter Fraud Unit, robust checks were carried out on all applications. As a result of these efforts, 10 Right to Buy applications have been stopped from proceeding due to concerns of fraud since the start of the year.
In addition to protecting public money, the council has also recovered several council properties, which are now being made available again to families on the housing waiting list. Investigations have further identified benefit and Council Tax overpayments, helping to recover additional funds for the borough.
Councillor Vicki Smith, Cabinet Member for Housing at Sandwell Council, said: “This is an excellent example of teamwork and vigilance across our housing and counter-fraud services. The surge in Right to Buy applications put real pressure on our teams, but their professionalism and attention to detail have ensured that public money and vital housing stock are protected for Sandwell residents.
“We want to reassure residents that while we support those who are eligible to buy their homes, we will continue to take a firm stance against anyone attempting to abuse the system.”
Sandwell Council remains committed to tackling fraud in all its forms and to maintaining fairness and transparency in how council homes and resources are managed.
To report suspected fraud, email Sandwell Council at fraud_investigation@sandwell.gov.uk or call 0121 569 2650.
People can also visit the council’s online reporting webpage.
