Mutual Exchange FAQ's
How can I find an exchange? By joining www.homeswapper.co.uk, looking on social media or by talking to other people.
How do I apply? Log onto MySandwell and complete the Mutual Exchange application form.
Do I have to be a secure tenant? Yes, introductory and non-secure tenants cannot complete a mutual exchange.
Who can I exchange with? Someone who has a secure or assured tenancy with a Local Authority or Housing Association
Do I have to exchange within Sandwell? No, you can exchange anywhere in the UK.
What size property can I exchange to? A property that meets the needs of your family profile and will not cause under occupancy or overcrowding
Should I view the property I want to exchange to? Yes, you should ensure the property type, size, location and its condition are suitable. A check list is provided to help you to record any issues that you identify. Discuss any concerns you have with the person you are looking to exchange with and ensure that both parties understand any agreements that are made.
Do I have to have an electrical inspection? Yes, to ensure the safety of our tenants an electrician will need to inspect and certify the property
Who is responsible for the repairs? When you complete a mutual exchange, you are agreeing to accept the property in the condition it's in at the time of the exchange and are therefore responsible for any non-standard repairs, decoration, any alterations that have been made by the previous tenant and any damage that has not been caused by ordinary wear and tear.
Some examples of things that you would be responsible for are:
- Cracked or broken glass
- Cracked washbasins
- Broken or lost keys
- Kitchen cupboards installed by previous tenant
- Damaged fixtures or fittings not due to ordinary wear and tear
Some examples of fixtures and fittings are doors and handles, light fittings, cupboard doors, worktops, skirting board, sockets, fires.
Some damage may need to be repaired by our repairs team for safety reasons, the cost of this will be recharged to you.
If you are unsure of any issues that you have identified within the property you are looking to exchange with, please contact your Officer for guidance.
How long does a mutual exchange take? We are required to make a decision within 42 days, however where possible we will try to do this sooner.
Can a mutual exchange request be refused? Yes, for the following reasons;
- A landlord has started eviction proceedings
- The property is adapted for a person with a disability and nobody in the new household requires the adaptation
- The property is larger than the household needs
- The property to is too small for the household, and would be overcrowded
- If any member of the household has behaved in an anti-social way, and action including possession proceedings, injunctions, anti-social behaviour orders or a demotion orders against them are in place or are being sought
Do I have the right to review? Yes, if you disagree with the decision you can ask for a review of your case within 21 days from the date of notification. If no request is received within 21 days the decision shall be deemed to be accepted.