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Mutual exchange

Mutual exchange

Swapping your home with another tenant is known as a mutual exchange.

You can exchange with:

  • another council tenant in Dacorum
  • a tenant of another council or housing association elsewhere in the UK.

A mutual exchange often provides a quicker and more flexible way to move than waiting on our Housing Register.

For more information, view our  Mutual Exchange Policy (PDF 299KB).

Advertise and search for a home

House Exchange

House Exchange lets you advertise your council home and search for another tenant to exchange with. It's free to use for Dacorum tenants and is used by social landlords across England, providing access to thousands of properties.

It offers video guides to help you navigate the platform and answer common queries.

Other platforms

You can also use other websites or local advertising (for example - shops, newspapers, or online forums). Some platforms may charge a fee.

Bedroom standards

We assess households seeking a mutual exchange under the  Bedroom standards (PDF 145KB) set out in the  Housing Allocations Policy (PDF 1295KB).

Important things to consider

  • Exchanges will not be approved if they cause overcrowding or under-occupation (unless there are exceptional circumstances)
  • If you have two or more children living at home, check our  Bedroom standards guide (PDF 145KB) to ensure your new home meets the requirements
  • You must agree to accept the property in its current condition. Any necessary repairs due to damage or unapproved alterations must be completed before approval
  • You can exchange with a tenant from another social landlord, but their landlord must also approve it
  • If your exchange partner changes their mind, the exchange is cancelled for everyone involved.

How to apply

To apply for a mutual exchange, follow these steps:

Step 1: Find a match

  • Use House Exchange (or other platform) to find a tenant to swap with.

Step 2: Complete the application

Step 3: Submit your application

Submit your completed form via:

  • Email: tenancy@dacorum.gov.uk
  • Post: Dacorum Borough Council, Tenancy Management Team, The Forum, Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP1 1DN

Once submitted, you will receive confirmation, and a Tenancy Management Officer will guide you through the next steps.

Approval and timescales

A decision will be made within 42 days, once all applications are received.

Reasons for refusal

You exchange may be refused if:

  • The property is in poor condition.
  • The home is too large or too small for your household (unless exceptional circumstances apply)
  • You have rent arrears. You should clear these before applying
  • There are ongoing anti-social behaviour issues
  • Valid grounds under the Housing Act 1985 or Localism Act 2011.

If your application is refused, we will inform you of the reasons in writing. You can request a review within 14 days of receiving the decision.

Contact us

For more information, contact our Tenancy Management Team:

  • Email: tenancy@dacorum.gov.uk
  • Telephone: 01442 228000
  • Post: Dacorum Borough Council, Tenancy Management Team, The Forum, Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP1 1DN

Page Last Updated: Monday, 19 May 2025 at 08:43 AM