Mutual Exchange
If you are a tenant of Signpost Housing Association, another
Housing Association or a Local Authority, you may be able to swap
your home with another tenant. This is called a Mutual
Exchange.
All assured and secure tenants have the right to exchange
properties with another tenant of Signpost Housing Association,
another housing association or a local authority. We may
refuse an exchange in certain circumstances, for example:
- If any party is in breach of their tenancy
- If the exchange would lead to overcrowding or
under-occupation
- If the property is designed specifically for people with
special needs which the person moving into the property doesn't
have
- If you have an assured shorthold tenancy (e.g. starter
tenancy), or a licence
You can arrange a mutual exchange with
other tenants of Registered Social Landlords. You are
responsible for finding an exchange partner. You can do this in a
number of ways:
- You can advertise in the local press or in local shops
- Some local housing association offices hold exchange registers
or will know of other tenants looking for an exchange.
- The local authority housing office may hold a register of their
tenants who are looking to exchange
- Look at the Home Swapper
website, it will provide a list of swapping opportunities across
the country (if you are a Signpost Housing resident this is a FREE
service).
When you have found someone to swap properties with you should
arrange to view the property to make sure that it is what you are
looking for. It is important to remember that when you move into an
exchanged property you take it “as seen”.
Both exchange partners need permission of each landlord. Tenants
who exchange without contacting their landlord, or before receiving
permission or before the exchange papers are signed lose security
of tenure and can be considered squatters.
When we receive the completed application forms from both
exchange partners you will be contacted by your Housing Officer to
arrange a visit to your home. We are required to produce a report
for the landlord of your exchange partner which includes
information on the condition of your property and the way your
tenancy has been conducted.
If you receive permission you must agree a provisional date for
exchange. Once all the documents are signed, the exchange can go
ahead.
To find out more about mutual exchanges or to request an
application form, call 01258 484800or email us at CustomerServices@sha.co.uk