Mutual exchange

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• Mutual exchange

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Who can exchange properties?

Tenants of either a council or registered social landlord (housing association) have a right to exchange, providing the landlords agree.

Are there any conditions?

The following conditions must be met:

• you must have permission from your landlord
• you are not an introductory tenant
• you do not have a County Court Judgement for rent arrears on your property, or a Notice of Intention to Seek Possession.
• you are moving to a property which is a similar size to your present one
• your present property is in a good state of repair and decoration
• any anti-social behaviour may affect your application

How do I go on the register?

There are lists in most council and housing association offices of tenants wishing to move, either within the area or to other areas. 

We have now partnered with HomeSwapper, the largest mutual exchange service in the country. This service is free to South Derbyshire District Council tenants.

You can search for homes at www.homeswapper.co.uk without registering. Search results include maps to help you see where the properties are. In addition, if you register with Homeswapper, they will automatically search every night for potential new swaps that meet your requirements and notify you by email weekly (if you have email) or text message fortnightly (if you have a mobile phone).

What happens next?

If you find someone whose home you would like and they have seen and would like yours, you should ask your landlords to approve the exchange. It is very important that you do not move until you have your landlord's approval in writing and you have signed the assignment documents.

If your request is refused, you have the right to appeal against the decision.

Contact details

South Derbyshire District Council
Housing Section
Civic Offices
Civic Way
Swadlincote
Derbyshire
DE11 0AH

Tel:  01283 595778
Fax: 01283 595852
Online: contact form
email: housing@south-derbys.gov.uk

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