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Mutual Exchange: Swapping Your Home
If you’re a social housing tenant, mutual exchange lets you swap homes with another housing association or council tenant.
It can be a good option if your current home no longer suits your needs for example, if you need more space, less space, or want to move to a different area.
Why Mutual Exchange?
A mutual exchange can offer more flexibility than other moving options.
The benefits
- it’s often quicker than waiting for another property
- there are no location restrictions you can swap locally or further afield
- you can exchange more than once during your tenancy, if needed
Am I Eligible To Exchange?
Before you apply, both tenants must have permission from their landlords. In most cases, a mutual exchange can go ahead if:
- both tenants have no rent arrears
- neither tenant is moving to a home that’s unsuitable for their household size. You can move to a property one bedroom larger, but you’ll need to cover any bedroom tax shortfall
- both tenants are secure or assured tenants
- neither tenant is facing eviction
- both landlords agree in writing
If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, please check with us before applying.
How Do I Find Someone To Swap With?
You’ll need to find another tenant who wants to exchange with you. You can do this by:
- joining home‑swapping groups (for example, on Facebook)
- advertising locally, such as in shops or community noticeboards
- registering on a Mutual Exchange website
Once you’ve found a potential swap, you can move on to the application stage.
When you’ve found someone to exchange with:
- Contact us to request a Mutual Exchange application form
- We’ll check that both households meet the eligibility criteria
- We’ll let you know our decision within 42 days
The exchange can go ahead once both landlords have given approval.
What You’ll Need To Provide
As part of your application, you’ll need to send us:
- proof that you’ve lived in your current home for at least 12 months. For example, a utility bill or bank statement
- proof of identity, such as a passport or photo ID
Need Help?
We know the mutual exchange process can feel a bit daunting but you don’t have to manage it on your own.
We’re here to support you at every stage.
