Many tenants who are looking for a mutual exchange, register with one of the online mutual exchange services (such as HomeSwapper). These services allow qualifying tenants to add their home to the service's website so that other registered users can view the property details. Interested tenants can then search the website and view other advertised properties, in order to find a suitable new home.
It is not a requirement to use one of the online mutual exchange services - it is just that many tenants find them convenient. It is also possible to agree an exchange via friends, family or neighbours for example - so long as the proper processes are followed.
Some of the key facts and requirements around mutual exchange are summarised below:
Do you qualify for a mutual exchange?
A mutual exchange can take place even if the people wishing to swap houses have different landlords. So for example, a local authority secure tenant could mutually exchange with:
In contrast, a tenant could not mutually exchange with a tenant renting through a private landlord, and there is no right to exchange to a vacant property.
Most mutual exchanges are between two tenants, but they can be between more than two, as long as all of the involved tenants are exchanging their tenancy, and are receiving an exchange in return.
For more information, including details about the legal processes and practicalities of mutual exchange, please download the guidance notes from the right hand side of the page.