A man from Impington near Cambridge has been convicted for subletting his council house for more than two years while living abroad. Robert Cieslik, 36, failed to tell South Cambridgeshire District Council he was living overseas while renting out his council house.
He was investigated following an anonymous tip off.
Cieslik failed to turn up to the hearing before Cambridge magistrates and was found guilty of tenancy fraud in his absence.
He was fined £660 and ordered to pay £5,000 costs, as well as a victim surcharge of £264.
District council finance bosses say it is a reminder to all council tenants to ensure that every intended change in property use or a change of personal circumstances are discussed with the authority.
“Failing to do so may be a breach of the tenancy or constitute a civil or criminal offence,” said a council spokesperson.
“A thorough investigation revealed that rental income was being received by Cieslik, who had only travelled to the UK on a handful of occasions during the period of two and a half years.
“It was discovered that Cieslik had failed to seek permission or inform the district council of a change in circumstances.”
Cllr John Williams, Lead Member for Resources at South Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “If you’re a tenant and your circumstances have changed, talk to us. If you don’t you could end-up in court.”
