Mutual exchange

If you want to move to another social rented home, you may be able to swap homes with another resident through a process called ‘mutual exchange.’

This page explains who can apply, how to find someone to swap with, how to apply, and what you should consider before moving.

You may be able to apply for a mutual exchange if you hold a secure, assured or fixed-term tenancy and have passed your probationary period.

You can exchange with someone who rents a home from:

You will not be able to swap with someone else if:

you have lived in your L&Q home for less than 12 months
either resident has been issued a Notice Seeking Possession on certain grounds and the Notice is still in force
either resident is subject to a Possession Order or Possession proceedings have been started on certain grounds
either resident is subject to a Suspended Possession Order for antisocial or riot-related behaviour
either resident, a person residing with the resident or visitor is the subject of an antisocial behaviour injunction, ASBO or an injunction order under s1 in the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014
the home would be too large or too small for the new household
the home has adaptions that the incoming household does not need
the home is tied to someone's employment with L&Q

If you're unsure whether you qualify, please contact us before applying.

The easiest way to find another home is through HomeSwapper, which is free to use.

This service lets you:

You may also find a swap through other reputable home swap websites or by asking family and friends.

Before you agree to swap homes, you should:

carefully inspect the property, including any outside space
make sure you’re satisfied with the condition of the property – homes are taken as seen
make sure the property is the right size for your household and meets the requirements of our Allocations policy
check the rent and any service charges for the property so that you understand the costs before proceeding
consider whether moving could affect your Right to Buy or Right to Acquire
clear any rent arrears before applying

If you’re swapping with someone who rents from another landlord, they must also complete their landlord’s application process.

Once you’ve found a swap partner you’d like to exchange with and you’ve both viewed each other’s homes, you can apply through HomeSwapper.

Select ‘Found a Swap? Apply Now’ and complete the online application.

Please make sure you provide all the information and documents requested. Missing information may delay your application.

Both households must submit an application before we can assess the exchange.

Once we receive your application, we’ll carry out several checks.

These include:

If you’re swapping with someone from another landlord, we’ll also contact their landlord to exchange references.

A gas safety check will be completed on your swap partner’s move-in date.

We aim to give you a decision within 42 days of receiving a completed application.

We’ll write to you to confirm the decision of your mutual exchange application.

Please do not move until you have received written approval from all landlords involved and the Deed of Assignment has been signed.

It is against the law to offer or accept money, gifts or any incentive to encourage a mutual exchange.

If you think someone is asking for payment or acting fraudulently, please contact our customer service centre.