Tenants Exchange Scheme

Mutual Exchange Scheme Within the Shepway Area

Mutually exchanging your property (doing a property swap) with another tenant can be one of the quickest ways of obtaining a move into another property of your choice. For some tenants this will be the only way a move can be arranged.

The following points need to be noted when thinking of an exchange:

• Each tenant accepts each other's property as it stands
• Any non-essential repairs will not be carried out by Coast and Countryside Housing Services during the first six months of the new tenancy
• Essential repairs such as water leaks, electricity and gas will be remedied and should be reported immediately
• A pre-exchange inspection is carried out by the Housing Officer to check the property. He or she will not any apparent defects so that both parties are aware of these before the exchange takes place
• A copy of the pre-exchange inspection form is drawn up for the in-going tenant as a guide only
• It is likely you will be viewing the property when it is fully furnished so it is in your own interest to check the property thoroughly. Any subsequent minor defects found will normally become your own responsibility
• If necessary check direct with Coast and Countryside Housing Services to see if any improvement works are due for the property, eg, replacement windows, kitchens, heating etc
• Neither party can move until the exchange has been approved by Coast and Countryside Housing Services subject to the pre-exchange inspection form and a satisfactory tenancy.

Exchanges will normally be approved by Coast and Countryside Housing Services provided both parties have clear rent accounts and there will be no substantial overcrowding or under-occupation in either property. We are not able to consider a request to exchange if any legal action is being taken against you due to rent arrears, nuisance or anti-social behaviour.

Application forms can be obtained from:

Coast and Countryside Housing Services,
Shepway Housing Centre
3-5 Shorncliffe Road
Folkestone
Kent CT20 2SQ

01303 850388

or by calling into the Housing Centre.

Mutual exchanges are a free service. There is no fee payable to apply for an exchange.

Please note that you can apply to exchange into Registered Social Landlords (formerly Housing Association) property as well as Coast and Countryside Housing Services property.