EXCHANGES -Your right to exchange your home

Tenants with a secure tenancy can exchange their home with other secure tenants including those of other Councils and Housing Associations.  

Tenants with an Introductory Tenancy do not have the right of exchange until they become a secure tenant.

What is an Exchange?

An exchange is when tenants swap their properties by mutual agreement.

Many tenants wish to move to other accommodation for a number of reasons but it is not always possible to do this quickly.  An exchange is a quick and easy way of moving without waiting on the re-housing list.

Moves can be achieved more quickly if tenants arrange to mutually exchange with each other.

How do I find an Exchange?

Tenants often advertise they want to move and will consider an exchange.  To advertise you can use the local newspapers or newsagents windows to give a brief description of your present accommodation and the type and location of accommodation you want.

A book is available at the main A1 offices showing details of those seeking an exchange who are on our waiting list.

Click below to view the latest update of the Mutual Exchange Register 

• August 2008

What do I do next?

You should not move until you have written permission.

Once you have found a possible exchange both tenants need to contact their landlord and ask for their Mutual Exchange application form.

If you want to go ahead with the exchange you must be clear on the following points.

• Both tenants must be prepared to accept each others accommodation in its present condition.
• If more than one landlord is involved, approval will have to be given by each landlord.
• If you change landlord, it is important that you are fully aware of what your rights are.  The terms of your tenancy may be different if you exchange with the tenant of a Registered Social Landlord or a different Council.
• Be sure of your rights before you go ahead with an exchange.

Why might an Exchange be refused?

The majority of exchanges go ahead quickly and without any problems.  Unfortunately in a few cases permission my be refused.The normal reasons why an exchange would be refused are:-

• If you or the other tenant is in rent arrears.
• If a notice seeking possession of your property has been served upon you.
• If one of the properties would be under-occupied if the exchange took place.
• If one of the properties would be overcrowded if the exchange took place.
• If we refuse your Exchange we will give you a written explanation of the reasons.