Move or swap homes with another tenant (mutual exchange)

If you are already a social housing tenant and your current home is not suitable, there are two options to move to another social housing property:

• to transfer to a different property you can apply to join the Housing Register
• or you can swap your home with another tenant (called a mutual exchange)

A mutual exchange can be a quicker way of finding a new home than applying for a transfer via the Housing Register, especially if your transfer application is not considered to be high priority.

If you are looking to move to a smaller home, your application will usually be considered a high priority. Speak to your housing provider as they may also offer you money to move. You will also need to join the housing register.

How to swap homes with another tenant

You need to:

• find someone to swap homes with
• get written permission from your landlords
• complete exchange documents

Who is eligible to swap homes

• you must be a tenant of either a council or housing association property
• you will not usually be allowed to swap homes if you have rent arrears or are still within your introductory tenancy period
• you will not usually be allowed to swap homes to move into a property that is either too large or too small for your family

How to find someone to swap homes with

You can use a tenancy exchange website, such as House Exchange or Homeswapper.

Once you have registered you will be able to search for a suitable exchange. You will only be able to exchange for a property that meets your needs.

Register with House Exchange

Register with HomeSwapper

If you have problems registering for an account or requesting a home swap, contact your housing provider for help.

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