Mutual exchange
A Mutual Exchange is when two or more tenants want to swap homes. As there is a high demand for social housing this is often a quicker way for you to move to a suitable property. This could be within the district or anywhere in the country.
The easiest way to find a swap with another tenant is by using HomeSwapper. It is free to register and will be able to view other people's properties.
Please note that tenants who have an introductory tenancy must wait at least a year or until their tenancy converts to a secure lifetime tenancy to apply for a mutual exchange.
I have found a possible mutual exchange partner how do I apply? Toggle accordion
Once you have created a HomeSwapper account and it has been approved, you must log in by using a web browser and not using the homeswapper app.
Please follow these steps:
1. Log on to your HomeSwapper account.
2. On your HomeSwapper dashboard you will see an 'Apply' button.
3. Clicking the “Apply” button shows a pop-up message.
4. If you have found someone to swap with and are ready to apply to your landlord for an exchange, click the “Apply to landlord” button. Do not click this button if you are not ready to officially apply to your landlord for an exchange.
5. You will now be taken to the SwapTracker application form.
What happens next? Toggle accordion
Once we have received all applications and documents from tenants that want to swap homes, we have 42 days to either approve or refuse your mutual exchange.
You will be contacted by a Repairs Surveyor who will need to complete an inspection of your property. Following this you will be advised of any problems with your property and whether works need to be carried out by our contractor or you.
You will be sent a report on the condition of property that you wish to move into and asked to sign a declaration slip. This is to confirm that you agree to accept the property in its current condition.
Subject to satisfactory landlord references and clear rent accounts for all parties, your application can be approved.
The Legal Requirements Toggle accordion
Legally we can only say no to your request for a limited number of reasons.
In some circumstances we can approve your application on the condition that a breach of your tenancy is rectified, such as clearing rent arrears or making good any damage to the property.
Arranging a moving date Toggle accordion
Once we have approved the mutual exchange, you and who you want to swap with can agree a date to move. Prior to this date your housing officer will arrange an appointment for you and your exchange partner to come into the Council offices to sign the paperwork which will legally transfer your tenancy. This will either be by a Deed of Assignment or by surrender and regrant of a new tenancy, depending on the type of tenancy you hold.
You must make sure that you leave your property in a clean and clear condition. All rubbish and belongings within your home including the loft, any outbuildings and sheds must be removed.
It is a condition of the mutual exchange that you provide access to our gas and electric contractors to carry out safety checks as soon as possible after the exchange has taken place.
The housing officer will contact you about 3 months after you have moved in to arrange a Welcome visit.
