Resident guidance: Rented tenants - Last updated 23 June 2026
Mutual exchanges - swapping home with another tenant
Living with us you have the right to exchange, or swap, your rented home with another social housing tenant, with our permission.
This guidance explains how to find exchange opportunities, eligibility criteria and how the process works.
In this guidance you’ll find:
- What is a mutual exchange?
- What are the benefits of mutual exchange?
- How do I know if I’m eligible?
- Are there any reasons why I wouldn’t be able to mutually exchange?
- How does mutual exchange work?
- How long does a mutual exchange application take?
- Where do I start my search?
- What advice do you have?
What is a mutual exchange?
Mutual exchanges are when you find another social housing resident to swap homes with. This can be an Anchor tenant, or the tenant of another housing association or local authority.
What are the benefits of mutual exchange?
Mutual exchange is a great way to find a home that better suits your needs - whether you want more space, to be closer to family or friends, or to move to a different area.
It puts you in control of your move and often means you can find a new home more quickly than waiting on the housing list.
Exchanges also offer the opportunity to work directly with another resident to agree on moving dates that suit you both.
How do I know if I’m eligible?
To be eligible for mutual exchange, you must have an eligible tenancy agreement ( a secure, assured, or fixed-term tenancy).
The person you want to exchange with must also be a social housing tenant and have their landlord’s approval and meet the eligibility criteria set out in our Allocations and Lettings Policy.
If you are not sure whether you are eligible please contact your location manager or the Customer Experience Hub on 0800 731 2020, and we’ll be happy to discuss this with you.
Are there any reasons why I wouldn’t be able to mutually exchange?
While we want to support you to move, there are some reasons an exchange might not be allowed. These include:
- If you or the other party have rent arrears or have breached your tenancy agreement.
- If your exchange partners don’t meet our eligibility criteria.
- If the exchange would result in the property being overcrowded or under-occupied.
- If you are subject to legal action to recover your home (including if you have been served with a Notice of Seeking Possession that has not expired).
Our team will look at these factors during your application and always explain any decision to you.
How does mutual exchange work?
- Start your search: Find a potential exchange partner through online exchange schemes, social housing forums or local networks.
- Apply for approval: Both you and your exchange partner must fill in mutual exchange application forms for your landlords.
- Home visits and checks: We’ll arrange to visit your home and carry out necessary checks, including your rent account, tenancy history, property condition and repairs.
- Decision time: Both landlords must give written permission before you move. We’ll explain any conditions or reasons if an exchange isn’t approved.
- Moving day: If approved, agree a moving date with your exchange partner and both landlords. After signing new paperwork, you can swap homes.
How long does a mutual exchange application take? What are the timescales for permission?
Once you and your exchange partner have completed your applications and both landlords have all the information they need, we legally have 42 days (six weeks) to make a decision. We aim to let you know much sooner where possible, and you’ll receive regular updates throughout the process.
Where do I start my search?
To provide you with access to the greatest possible choice of potential swaps, Anchor subscribe to HomeSwapper, the UK’s leading mutual exchange service for social housing.
Registering with their website you will be able to search for and swap your Anchor home with another tenant from anywhere in the country (subject to eligibility criteria).
If you do not have access to the internet please contact the Customer Experience Team and they will support you to register with HomeSwapper.
Once you have found a property you wish to swap to you must obtain the written permission from us. Please contact your location manager or the Customer Experience Team to ask for an application form.
What advice do you have?
When you’re looking to swap homes, sharing lots of details and up-to-date photos of your property can really help find the right match. Be open and ready to answer questions about things like gardens, parking, and your responsibilities as a resident - and don’t forget to ask questions yourself when you’re viewing a new home.
Take time during viewings to check the condition of the property. Remember, you may take on responsibility for any resident repairs once you move in, so make sure to report any you find in your current home as well. Never feel rushed or pressured into moving; it’s an important decision, so take your time.
Moving home can bring extra costs, from removals and decoration to utility bills and lock changes - so it’s wise to plan ahead. And please don’t book any removals until your move date has been confirmed by Anchor.
More guidance on lettings, tenancies and leases
Related information for residents on coming to live with us and important rights and responsibilities outlined in your tenancy or lease.
