What happens during a mutual exchange?
When you find a suitable match, you should contact the other tenant to discuss a potential swap.
We recommend you view the property to make sure it meets your needs.
You should:
- Check the property is in good repair
- Make sure the property is suitable for your needs
- Find out what fixtures and fittings belong to the property and what the tenant will be taking with them
- Ask the tenant if they intend to remove any alterations and replace them with the landlord’s original fittings
- Check the tenancy terms and conditions for the new property, and make sure you understand and are happy with them
We will not get involved in this.
When you apply
When you find another tenant you want to exchange with, contact us to apply.
We will inspect your current home before we make a decision.
When we inspect your home, we will check for any alterations, repairs or damage. If you don’t fix these before you move, the new tenant will be responsible for them.
We cannot guarantee that we’ll find all alterations, repairs or damages during the inspection; some problems may not be noticeable until you have moved out and the property is empty.
We will decide your application within 42 days.
Could my application be refused?
Yes. Permission will only be refused where there is good reason.
We can refuse permission if:
- You have rent arrears
- You have been responsible for causing nuisance or antisocial behaviour
- We are taking legal action to repossess your home, or the home you want to move to
- We are taking legal action to repossess your home, or we have served you with a Notice of Seeking Possession
- One of the homes in the exchange is going to be under or over-occupied
- One of the homes has had adaptations, and the person who wants to move in doesn’t need them
Your reference checks must also be clear, and the property must be in a satisfactory condition. Other criteria may also apply on a case-by-case basis.
Both tenants must have their landlord’s permission before the exchange can happen.
If we decide you do not have the right to exchange, we will tell you why.
Will I be charged for exchanging?
We will not charge you for exchanging, or for any property checks we have to carry out. You will be responsible any moving costs.
It is illegal to offer or accept money or any other incentive for a mutual exchange.
Can I cancel my exchange?
Yes. You are not legally committed to the exchange until both tenants have formally agreed to it. This involves you signing a ‘deed of assignment’.
You cannot change your mind after you have done this.
Can a swap involve more than two properties?
Yes. If you find a property you like but your home isn’t quite right for the other tenant, you can look for a third person to create a ‘multi-swap’. This is where three or more tenants all swap in a chain.
Will my tenancy terms remain the same when I move?
Before agreeing a move, you should check the terms of your new tenancy agreement to make sure you understand and are happy with them. The new agreement might not be the same as your old one.
For example:
- The rent you pay may be different
- There may be restrictions on Right to Buy or rights to pass on the tenancy to someone else
- There may be special conditions, such as not allowing pets