Changing your tenancy

A mutual exchange lets you swap your council or housing association home with another tenant. You must get written permission before you move. This page explains who can exchange, how to apply, and what happens next.

Who can exchange

If you have a Scottish Secure Tenancy Agreement, you can apply to exchange with tenants from:

• South Lanarkshire Council
• other UK councils
• UK housing associations or registered social landlords

Any joint tenant, partner, or person living with you must also agree in writing. We will contact them to confirm this.

How the decision works

We check every application carefully. This includes checks on property size and household needs. We usually make a decision within 28 days, or contact you if we need more information or extra time.

We only refuse an exchange if there is a clear reason, such as the move causing overcrowding. If we refuse, we will explain why and tell you how to appeal.

Finding someone to exchange with

You can register on the House Exchange website. This service helps tenants across the UK find possible swaps.

Registering does not give permission to move. You must still apply for written approval.

How to apply

Before the exchange can go ahead:

• you must apply for our permission
• the other tenant must also complete an online application
• if the other tenant has a different landlord, both of you must apply to that landlord too

We will contact the other landlord for a reference as part of the process.

If your exchange is approved

Once approved, you can agree a moving date with the other tenant. On that date, you will sign a new tenancy agreement for your new home.

Before applying, read the guide for council tenants so you understand your rights and responsibilities.

Take action

• Register on House Exchange to find a swap
• Apply for written permission
• Ask the other tenant to submit their application

The tenant you wish to exchange with must also complete this online form. If their tenancy is not with South Lanarkshire Council, both tenants must also complete an application with the relevant landlord. We will contact the landlord for a reference as part of the application process.