Mutual exchange

If you're looking to move home, a mutual exchange could be an option for you.

A mutual exchange allows council and housing association tenants to swap homes with another social housing tenant, subject to landlord approval. This can be a good option if you:

  • Need a larger or smaller home
  • Want to move to a different area
  • Need accommodation that better suits your circumstances
  • Want to be closer to work, family or support networks

When a mutual exchange takes place, you take over the other tenant's tenancy together with the rights and responsibilities attached to it.

A minimum of one week's rent must be paid in advance once a mutual exchange has been approved.

Find a Swap with HomeSwapper

West Lancashire Borough Council provides tenants with free access to HomeSwapper, the UK's largest mutual exchange platform. HomeSwapper connects you with hundreds of thousands of social housing tenants across the UK who are also looking to swap homes.

Why use HomeSwapper?

  • Free to register and use
  • Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
  • Access to over 230,000 live property adverts
  • Automated matching to help find suitable homes
  • Instant messaging with potential swap partners
  • MultiSwap chains to increase your chances of finding a move
  • Free mobile app available
  • Dedicated support from the HomeSwapper Help Desk

To get started, visit Homeswapper.co.uk

Simply register, tell HomeSwapper about your current home and the type of home you're looking for, and start searching for matches.  To help you register and for further information please use the below guide.

Homeswapper Tenant Welcome Guide

Before You Agree to a Swap

We recommend that you:

  • Visit the property several times, including at different times of the day
  • Check the rent and tenancy type
  • Research the local area and available amenities
  • Confirm you meet any eligibility criteria
  • Consider transport links, schools, and local services
  • Ensure the property meets your household's needs
  • Check which fixtures and fittings will remain in the property

Remember, you will usually be accepting the property "as seen".

Applying for a Mutual Exchange

Once you have found a tenant you would like to exchange with, you must complete a Mutual Exchange Application Form and submit it for approval via the below email.

Email: neighbourhoods@westlancs.gov.uk

Mutual Exchange Application Form:
https://www.westlancs.gov.uk/media/546786/mutual-exchange-application.doc

We will assess the application and carry out the necessary tenancy and property checks. By law, landlords have a maximum of 42 days from receipt of a completed application to provide a decision.

Please do not make arrangements to move until written approval has been received from all landlords involved and the necessary legal documentation has been completed.

Need Help?

For questions about your mutual exchange application, contact:

Email: neighbourhoods@westlancs.gov.uk
Telephone: 01695 577177

For help using HomeSwapper:

Email: tenants@homeswapper.co.uk