Address Fraud Investigation — does the tenant live where they claim to?
Address fraud costs society millions each year in wrongful benefits, allowances, and social housing. We determine whether someone actually resides at the address where they are registered.
Real Estate
Address Fraud Investigation
Address fraud is a common but difficult-to-prove problem. Tenants who are registered at an address where they do not actually live often do so to claim benefits, allowances, or social housing. For landlords and housing associations, this means properties are not being used by the rightful occupant, rental agreements are being breached, and the housing market is further disrupted. Without objective evidence, however, taking action is legally risky. SAJ Recherche conducts independent address fraud investigations and delivers the factual substantiation you need to take action.
What we investigate
What do we investigate in address fraud cases?
Address verification: We determine whether the registered person actually resides at the address. Occupancy patterns: Through surveillance, we map who actually lives in the property, how often, and at what times. Municipal records check: We compare the actual situation with the data in the Personal Records Database (BRP). Digital indicators: Research into online activities, delivery addresses, and other digital traces that may or may not indicate actual occupancy. Overlap with other fraud: Address fraud often coincides with benefits fraud, allowance fraud, or illegal subletting. We flag this overlap in our report.
When is this needed?
An address fraud investigation is relevant for social housing units being held while the tenant lives elsewhere, registrations solely for the purpose of benefits or allowances, and situations with multiple registered persons who do not actually reside there. Municipalities and benefits agencies also engage us when there are signals of address fraud.
How does the investigation work?
You share your suspicions. We assess the signals and advise on the approach.
We determine the methods: surveillance, address verification, digital and neighborhood research.
Our investigators carry out the investigation and document everything forensically.
You receive a report with visual evidence and timeline, suitable for the subdistrict court or enforcement proceedings.
Want to discuss your situation?
Contact us for a free, confidential consultation.
⚖️ Legal framework
SAJ Recherche operates in compliance with the Dutch Private Security and Investigation Agencies Act (Wpbr) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR/AVG). All investigations are conducted under POB licence 8779, issued by the Ministry of Justice and Security.
Legal recognition and licences
Frequently asked questions
Is address fraud a criminal offense?
Do you work with municipal enforcement officers?
How long does an address fraud investigation take?
Can I use the report to terminate the rental agreement?
What does it cost?
Read more about address fraud investigation
Ready for the next step?
Schedule a free intake meeting and discover how we can help.