Mutual Exchange Policy

Overview

Moving home can be a big decision, especially when your circumstances change. Some tenants want to move to a larger or smaller home, be closer to family or support networks, or move to a different area. A mutual exchange allows council tenants to swap homes with another tenant, with the Council’s permission.

Sandwell Council has a legal responsibility to make sure mutual exchanges are handled fairly, safely and lawfully, and that homes are suitable for the households living in them. There are rules about who can exchange, how applications are assessed, and when an exchange can be approved or refused. These rules can be detailed and are not always easy to understand.

We have written a draft Mutual Exchange Policy to clearly explain:

• Who is eligible to apply for a mutual exchange
• How the application process works
• How property size and suitability are assessed
• What checks and inspections are required
• When an exchange may be approved, approved with conditions, or refused
• What rights tenants have if they disagree with a decision

Before this policy is finalised, we want to hear from tenants, residents, household members, and organisations who may be affected. Your feedback will help ensure the policy is clear, fair, and practical, and reflects real experiences.

This survey should take around 5–10 minutes to complete. Your responses are confidential. There are no right or wrong answers – we value your views.