Mutual Exchange
One of the quickest way to move home is by a mutual exchange.
A mutual exchange is when at least two tenants wish to exchange homes. The Housing Act 1985 gave tenants the right to exchange properties with another housing association or local authority tenant.
Swan are members of homeswapper and therefore Swan tenants can registered the homeswapper website free of charge to search for someone to exchange homes with. As well as the internet swaps can be found through friends or family, advertising in a local paper or shop window or council’s housing department may have exchange books in their reception area advertising the details of people who want to exchange.
Only tenants with Assured or Secure tenancies can exchange. Tenants with Starter or Assured Shorthold Tenancies can not exchange.
There are several reasons why an exchange may not be able to go ahead:
The exchange will lead to a worse housing situation for one of the tenants, such as overcrowding
One of the tenants involved has a possession order (including a suspended order)
One of the tenants involved has a notice seeking possession in force
One of the tenants involved is in rent arrears
One of the tenants involved has been found guilty of a breach of tenancy such as committing acts of anti-social behaviour
The size of the property is not suitable for the needs of the tenant proposing to exchange
The property is designated or adapted and the tenant proposing to exchange does not have such needs
The property has repairs outstanding which are the tenant’s responsibility
If you have found someone you wish to exchange homes with contact us for a Mutual Exchange Application Form. There is a different form if the person you are hoping to exchange with is not a Swan tenant. You should send the completed forms (together if possible) back to Swan for your application to be considered.
Your Housing Officer will need to carry out an inspection of your home; they will also check records to see how you have conducted your tenancy and whether you owe any monies, such as arrears or recharges. If the person you are proposing to exchange with has a different landlord we will need to write to them for a reference for their tenant, they will also want a reference about you.
Applications must be processed within 42 days of receipt. Once you receive notification that you can exchange you will need to agree a moving date with the person you are exchanging with. You will then be asked to sign a deed of assignment to complete the exchange.
If you have questions regarding mutual exchanges please contact us at allocations@swan.org.uk
Further Guidence on Mutual Exchanges
Mutual exchange form for Swan tenants
Mutual exchange form for External tenants