It does not matter whether you are a council or housing association tenant you have the right to swap your property with another tenant. It does not cost anything to exchange your council or housing association home except from the cost of the removal and packaging fees. Home Swapper is a very easy way to get statred a with Mutual Exchange. All tenants involved will be expected to pay for their own removal expenses.

Sometimes there may be conditions to be fulfilled before permission is granted – for example,clearing any rent arrears or putting right any damage to the property. Noexchange can be agreed if there are outstanding rent arrears. Your council’s area office will be able to provide advice and guidance. Your home will be inspected by the area office before any exchange and arrangements are madeto test the electricity supply and fittings to ensure they are safe. Also both parties must be suitable for each others property.   Landlords will ask for some basic information including the names and dates of birth of everyone involved from your household. They will also ask for the details of the tenants of the other household that are asking to move into your existing property and their address and the name and address of their current landlord. If you require further information, we would advise you to contact your Housing Officer who will be able to assist you further. Permission will not be given:

• if you, or either of the tenants, has a Notice Seeking Possession and/or a court order against them – for example for arrears or anti-social behaviour
• if the exchange would mean that one or both homes would be either overcrowded or under occupied. 

You accept your swap property ‘as seen’ when you exchange.

Find out what repairs the landlord will do – you may have to do some yourself.

If the other person has improved their home, you should discuss what they will be taking with them, and what will be left when you move in. If the previous tenant has damaged the property or done any alterations without permission, you may have to put it right.

DO NOT PAY for an Exchange

You must not pay any money to, or receive money from, anyone in return for a home/ house exchange. Legally, this is not permitted and it is grounds for eviction.

There is no recourse available to tenants once monies have changed hands. 

There is no restriction on the amount of times a tenant chooses to exchange and no time limit required in a new property before they undergo a new exchange. 

Once an exchange has been agreed, by the landlord and tenants, 28 days notice needs to be given of the tenants intention to exchange.

Presenting your home

The first sight of your home is what swappers see when they arrive. You must make sure that every part of this visual picture looks at its best. The interior maybe great but they may never see it if the exterior is shabby. The street in front of your home should be swept clean if ecessary, any weeds that are growing in the pavement cracks removed, unsightly bins hidden and litter picked up. A newly painted fence gives your home a fresh look.

Garden

Well tended borders and a recently mown lawn can give the impression of a low maintenance garden which is a plus to interested parties. They want to see themselves relaxing in the garden and their children playing safely so help create the impression for them.

Front Path

Like the pavement, the path to your front door should be free from weeds and clean. If sections are badly cracked then have them repaired.

Driveway

Make sure your driveway is clean and free from weeds. If you think your car spoils the look of your house, or if you have more than one car and it looks cluttered, park one on the street to give a clear view of your property.

Repair and Decor

Have any obvious internal and external repairs done. The front door is often what a swapper will focus on while they are waiting to be let in. Therefore, it is essential to clean and repaint the front door if necessary and polish any brass fittings. A fresh coat of paint can be one of the best investments you can make to increase the odds of exchanging your home. This one improvement can transform the look of your home.

Communal Entrance

Communal entrances are where a swapper’s first impression of the interior of the house is formed. Make sure you’re the entrance is clean and smelling fresh.

Kitchen

The kitchen can be the most important room in the house when it comes to selling. Its condition has a direct impact on the value of your property.It is worth ensuring that any repairs are done and ensure that the room is spotlessly clean and smells fresh. Banish small appliances and any clutter from work surfaces. Consider replacing badly worn flooring with a neutral coloured vinyl.

Bathroom

Bathrooms are a major concern for most people and there are many ways in which you can improve an old bathroom sufficiently to add appeal. It is important to freshen air and hide away personal clutter. Remove any mould from showers and baths and make sure that the room is thoroughly cleaned

Viewing

When showing your home avoid having too many people present as your potential swapper may feel like intruders and rush through the house without taking in its best features. Never apologise for the appearance of your home after all it has to be lived in. Make sure pets are not at home as not everybody likes them and from a security point of view make sure valuables are kept out of view. Don’t forget to mention the best features as they may not see everything. Remember not to overpower viewers. Some of the things that are important to you will not matter to them.

You can dramatically increase the appeal of your property by paying attention to detail. Potential swappers need to be able to visualise themselves living in your home. Generally speaking cleanliness, freshness, and decluttering of spaces are huge factors when promoting your property décor can also be very important, but everyone can decorate as long as they see potential. All of the above helps to facilitate and increase the chances of a property swap occurring, whilst also making the property a nicer homeor house to live in until you do swap. 

Moving Home

Packing

Pack heavy items in small boxes and lighter items in larger boxes. Plates and record albums should be packed on end vertically, rather than placed flat and stacked. If it’s irreplaceable, take it with you in the car (you don’t want regrets later). But if you do decide to pack framed photos or art, place sheets or blankets between them for added protection. Toilet paper, telephone, toiletries, snacks, coffee (and pot), soap, flashlight, screwdriver, pliers, can opener, paper plates, cups, utensils, a couple of pans, and paper towels are some of the essentials you may need upon arrival at your new home. Pack a box with these types of items and load it last so that it will be unloaded first.

Designate one box for sheets and towels so that you won’t have to rummage through boxes for these essentials the first night in your new home.

If using removal men before the men leave for your new destination, give him a phone number where you can be reached. It is also a good idea to provide him with an alternate contact in case you can’t be reached. After you’;ve thoroughly cleaned and dried the inside of your refrigerator, put a handful of fresh coffee or baking soda in a sock or stocking and place it inside to keep the interior smelling fresh. Remove bulbs before packing your lamps. When moving plants to your new residence via your car, try not to let foliage rest against the windows, as the leaves can scorch.

Upon arrival at your new home, let your computer "acclimate" itself to room temperature before plugging it in. Have your utility companies do a final reading of the gas, electric and water meters. Make sure to get and keep a copy of your bill. Pay any overdue bills, but also collect any refunds or utility deposits. Many people forget that they may have served up a substantial chunk of change months and sometimes years back – depending on how long they’ve lived at their most recent address.Take along your local phone directories, in case you need to make contact again with your old neighbourhood.

Packing Tips.

Whether moving a short distance or across the country, proper packing is your best insurance against property damage. It’s tempting to leave everything to the last minute. Unfortunately you can’t just throw your whole house into a suitcase and go. Better moves begin with proper planning. Reinforce the bottom of all boxes. Pack one room at a time and label each box with room and contents. Fill unused space in boxes with paper or filler to prevent shifting. Mark boxes containing fragile items clearly with "Fragile". Load these boxes on top and secure in place. Disassemble any items you can. Wrap sharp corners to prevent them from puncturing or scratching other items. Move valuables, houseplants, and necessities with you, not in any removal truck.

Furniture.

Protect furniture by padding with bubble wrap or blankets and securing firmly. Remove furniture legs when possible. Place wing nuts or screws in bags taped to underside of furniture. To protect against scratches, coat fine wood furnishings with wax. Stand sofas on end and secure to minimize space used. Place loose cushions in bags and use as filler between pieces. Move dressers with drawers full to avoid repacking. Secure drawers from opening during transit.

Electronics.

Use original boxes for computers, stereos or televisions whenever possible and follow manufacturer’s instructions for moving. Wrap each piece with bubble wrap or foam packing material. Immobilize any moving parts. Remove all cables and cords and label for easier reinstallation. Tape electrical cords to backs to prevent plug damage. Compact discs, video and cassette tapes may warp in a moving truck in hot weather.

Major Appliances.

Defrost, clean and dry refrigerators/freezers days before moving. Utilize the interior space for lightweight or crushable items. Disconnect and empty hoses for washing machines and place in the tub. Immobilize the tub with a moving brace or by placing towels/blankets between the tub and sidewall. Tape electrical cords to backs of machines to prevent damage.

Glassware / Dishes.

Individually wrap each piece in sturdy boxes. Plates should be packed on edge not flat. Purchase "dish packs" for best protection. Wrap fine silver in cloth or silver paper.

Wall Hangings/Lamps.

Wrap wall hangings individually with bubble wrap, blankets or towels.Place on edge in protective cartons. Remove shades and bulbs before packing lamps and place them in sturdy cartons, loading them on top.

Moving your pet(s).

Whether you’re moving across the country or just to the other side of town, you’ll want to ensure that your pets are able to make as comfortable a transition as possible.

Cats should always be kept in a carrier during travel. With dogs, you have the option of using a restraining harness, available in most pet supply stores.Make sure to stop frequently to allow your pet to exercise and relieve itself (a good rule of thumb is to pull over every two hours). Cats can benefit from the use of a harness and a litter box on long trips. As always, never leave your pet unattended in a parked car. This is especially true during the hot summer months, when the temperature in your car can rise to 120 degrees.

Dogs are easier to move with than cats because dogs become more attached to their owners as opposed to their environment. In fact, unlike cats that prefer the routine, dogs welcome a change in the environment and even thrive in it. Most likely, your dog has become accustomed to riding in a car and being on a leash. However, it is recommended that you further condition your dog for longer car rides. Drive with him around the neighborhood a few times. However, like cats, dogs may become a bit upset on moving day when they see all of the unusual activity. You should confine the dog in its favorite room along with its favorite blanket and toys.

Moving with cats can be especially difficult. Cats tend to become more attached to their environment rather than to people. When relocating with a cat, it is necessary to prepare in advance. Show your cat plenty of attention and constantly reassure it with familiar items and scents so the move does not come as a shock. Cats may not be as familiar traveling in cars as dogs are. Several weeks prior to the move, it is recommended that you take your cat on short trips in the car around the neighborhood and then slowly increase the distance. On moving day, confine your cat in its favorite room along with its favorite bed and toys. This is to make sure that it won’t run away. Seeing everything packed and empty may make the cat feel unstable. Pack a travel case for your cat and count on numerous rest stops. As you settle into your new home, spend some more time with your cat. Sit down with it and provide your cat with a comfortable living space. Keep it in and around the house for as long as it takes them to become acclimated. Limit the cats explorations to just the new house and then gradually accompany it on tours outside. Confining the cat may seem a bit cruel, but cats are more likely to run back to the old house, no matter the distance. This process could last up to a month before the cat becomes completely familiar with the new house, the scents, and noises it makes on the new carpet and floors.