A mutual exchange is when two or more tenants agree to swap homes on a permanent basis. This can be a great way to find a home that better suits your current needs, especially if your existing property is too large or too small.
Am I eligible?
To be eligible for a mutual exchange, you must meet the following criteria:
- Have the correct type of tenancy
- Have no rent arrears
- Move to a property of the correct size for your current needs (we would not normally support a move where someone ends up with more bedrooms than they need)
- Not be seeking to move into a property with aids or adaptations (e.g. wet rooms) unless you have a medical recommendation
- Not be subject to a Possession Order, an Antisocial Behaviour Order, or have any other serious tenancy issues
How to Apply
- You are responsible for finding a suitable exchange partner, which you can do by registering on the HomeSwapper website or other exchange platforms. If you live in Dundee or Aberdeen/shire, you can also register with House Exchange, a free service available in those areas.
- Visit the other home to make sure you’re happy with it.
- It is illegal for you or the other tenant to charge a fee as part of the tenancy exchange. You could be evicted if you charge or receive any money to swap your home.
- Once you are happy, both parties must complete and return a mutual exchange application form before the process can begin.
- The outgoing tenant must have a clear rent account at the time of the exchange, with no arrears.
- Pay rent in advance – this applies to all mutual exchanges.
- You must not arrange to move until consent has been given and the paperwork has been signed.
Please be aware that the person you're planning to exchange with can change their mind at any point, which may stop the exchange from going ahead.
What we will do
- Once we receive applications from all parties, we will acknowledge receipt within 5 working days and begin reviewing your application.
- If both homes are Sanctuary properties, we will arrange visits to each home to ensure everyone is happy with the exchange.
- At the home visit we will complete an inspection of the property to identify any repairs that will need to be completed before the exchange can go ahead.
- If repairs are your responsibility, we will arrange a second inspection to check the repairs have been completed. Any repairs not completed could result in a recharge, a change to the projected dates for the gas and electricity check, account management call and sign-up appointment, or the exchange not taking place.
- We may need to carry out gas and electricity safety checks before you swap.
- We will respond with a decision within 28 days. You will receive written confirmation either approving or refusing the exchange. If refused, we will explain why.
- If the exchange involves more than one landlord, approval will be required from all landlords involved.
Before you request an application for a mutual exchange, we suggest you read all of the FAQs below.