Commentary on Sections Part 2 Homelessness Section 97 – False statements, withholding information and failure to disclose change of circumstances
186.This creates an offence if a person knowingly or recklessly makes a false statement, or withholds information with the intent to induce a local housing authority to provide accommodation or assistance.
187.Subsection (2) requires an applicant, before a local housing authority’s decision on the application, to notify a local housing authority of any change of facts material to his or her case. This requirement must be explained to the applicant in clear language. If, after having had it explained, a person does not comply and does not have a reasonable excuse for failing to comply, he or she is guilty of an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 4 on the standard scale.