Mutual Exchanges

Secure tenants of a local authority or assured tenants of a housing association have the right to exchange their homes by way of assignment with the approval of their landlord.

Our Mutual Exchange Scheme enables tenants to advertise their property giving details of the type of property and area they would like to move to. The list of tenants looking for an exchange can be viewed at the One Stop, Civic Centre in Arnold and the Cemetary Lodge, Carlton Cemetary, Cavendish Road, Carlton.

To view the guidance notes for the Mutual Exchange Scheme, click on the link below;

Guidance for Mutual Exchange Scheme

The landlord will not withhold permission without good cause. For example:

The application to exchange will be refused if: -

• There is a Court Order against you on any grounds, including rent arrears.
• There is a current Notice of Seeking Possession in force on Grounds one to six of schedule 11 of the Housing Act 1985.  For further details please contact your landlord.
• Your proposed new property is too big for your needs
• Your proposed new property is too small for your needs resulting in overcrowding.
• The property is specifically designed or adapted for the elderly and/or disabled.

Grounds for Deferring

The application to exchange will be deferred if: -

• There are rent arrears but no Court Order or Notice of Seeking Possession.
• There are rent arrears outstanding in respect of a former tenancy.
• There is money outstanding in respect of a former tenancy.
• The property requires repairs, which are not a direct result of fair wear and tear.  Or there are unauthorised tenants improvements that must be rectified before an exchange can take place.
• There is a matter with the tenancy that must be resolved before and exchange can take place.

Once the reason for deferment has been resolved your exchange should be granted.

You MUST not exchange until you have received your landlords written permission to do so, but the landlord has to make a decision on your request within 42 days.

REMEMBER – if you choose to exchange your home, you may be taking on a higher level of responsibility, for example if the former tenant had undertaken any improvements, such as fitting a new kitchen or bathroom, you would be responsible for maintaining such items in the future.

The benefit of the mutual exchange scheme is that it can provide a quicker way for you to move, than waiting for a transfer with your current landlord.

Download and complete the following:

• Application guidance
• Application form for mutual exchange scheme

For further information please e-mail us on housingservices@gedling.gov.uk or telephone us on 0115 9013689.