Northumberland Homefinder

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Mutual Exchange

  

What is a mutual exchange?

A mutual exchange is where you swap your home with someone who wants to swap theirs. If you are a tenant of a housing association, registered social landlord or another council, you may be able to exchange your home with another tenant who wants to swap, even if their landlord is different from yours.  The benefit of a Mutual Exchange is that you may be able to find a new home more quickly and you may be able to find a home that you would otherwise not have been able to apply for. 

How can I apply for a mutual exchange?

Northumberland Homefinder's partner landlords have signed up to a national mutual exchange scheme.  Tenants of Isos Housing, Homes for Northumberland, Bernicia and Berwick Borough Housing can use the service free of charge.

You can apply online at www.homeswapper.co.uk  The process is simple and it won't take you more than about 15 minutes to register.

If you do not have access to a computer, or don't know anyone who could access a computer for you, speak to your landlord and they will help you.

What happens when I have submitted my application?

Once you have registered your property on Homeswapper your landlord will check your application.  Once they have agreed your application your property details will be displayed on the Homeswapper website.

You can decide to receive updates by text or email about homes that you might be interested in.

How do I search for a property?

You can search for a proeprty that you might be interested in at the Homeswapper website.

How to express interest in a mutual exchange property

When you have found a property on the website that you wish to consider swapping with yours you can contact the tenant of that property to see if they are interested in your home.

If you do find someone to swap with, both tenants must contact their landlord to request a swap. 

I have found someone I would like to swap with - what do I do next?

First you must contact your landlord.

Your landlord will then review your application to swap. If the properties being exchanged are owned by different landlords, then both landlords must approve the swap. A swap will only be agreed if the properties are suitable for the type of home each applicant needs.

How will I know if my application to swap has been approved?

When your landlord has completed their checks and everything is in order, they will write to you and the person you wish to swap with giving you permission to exchange.

When can I move?

You can move only when you have received notification in writing that both landlords have agreed the exchange. If two landlords are involved, you will need letters from both.  If permission to swap is refused, your landlord will tell you and the person you wish to swap with, by letter. If the reason for the refusal is due to your circumstances, that information will not be given to the other party.

Can you refuse a swap?

Yes. An application to swap might be refused if:

• either household has rent arrears
• the home would be too large
• the home would be overcrowded
• the home is designed or adapted for someone with a disability