Moving Between Council Homes in England: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're a council tenant in England, you may be considering moving to a different council home. Whether you need more space, want to relocate for family or work reasons, or your current home no longer meets your needs, there are established processes to help you transfer between council properties. This guide will walk you through your options and rights as a council tenant in England, highlighting key steps, official forms, and helpful resources.

Your Options for Moving Between Council Homes

There are several ways to move from one council home to another in England. Choosing the best route depends on your circumstances and housing needs. Your main options include:

• Transferring to another council property (via the housing register or transfer list)
• Mutual exchange with another council or housing association tenant
• Applying for a new council tenancy in a different area

Each method has its own rules and processes, explained in detail below.

Transferring to Another Council Home

The most common way to move to another council home is by applying for a transfer. This process allows existing tenants to be considered for alternative properties managed by their council or housing association. Reasons for transfer include overcrowding, medical needs, or significant changes in your household.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Transfer

• Contact your local council's housing department and ask to join the transfer list (often called the Housing Register). Find your council's contact details at the official gov.uk council finder.
• Complete the housing application form provided by your council. This might be an online form or a paper application. For most areas, this is called a "Housing Transfer Application" or simply included in the council's "Housing Application Form."
  • Example: In London Boroughs, the form is often titled "Housing Application Form" and is available through the local council's website.
  • Your council may require supporting documents such as proof of identity, tenancy agreement, and evidence of your current housing need.
• Your council will review the application and assess your housing need according to their allocations policy.
• If accepted onto the list, you may be given a priority banding (such as urgent, high, or low priority) based on your situation.
• You can bid for suitable homes through your council's choice-based lettings system or receive direct offers.

Official Forms Used

• Housing Transfer Application (no national number): Use when you want to move to another council home due to changing needs. Obtain and submit directly through your local council's housing department. For example, see Birmingham City Council's housing transfer page for guidance.
• Supporting Medical/Welfare Assessment Forms: If you’re moving for health or wellbeing reasons, your council may ask you to complete a medical assessment form. Check your council website for their specific form and process.

Mutual Exchange: Swapping Council Homes

If you want to move more quickly or to a different area, a mutual exchange is a practical option. This allows you, as a secure or assured tenant, to swap homes with another council or housing association tenant—providing both landlords approve the exchange.

• Register with national home swap services like HomeSwapper or House Exchange (note: run in partnership with many councils).
• Find another tenant willing to swap.
• Both parties must complete your council's "Mutual Exchange Application" form.
• Your landlord must approve the swap before you move. Reasons for refusal may include rent arrears or property suitability issues.

• Mutual Exchange application forms (often called "Mutual Exchange Application"): Used when seeking to swap tenancies with another council/housing association tenant. Submit to your landlord for consideration; see official gov.uk guidance on mutual exchanges for more info.

If your mutual exchange is refused, you are entitled to a written explanation. If you disagree with the decision, you can ask the council to review it or seek advice from the Housing Ombudsman Service.

Key Eligibility Rules

To move between council homes, you must generally:

• Have a secure or assured tenancy, usually with a good record (e.g., no significant rent arrears)
• Follow your council's application processes and supply all requested evidence
• Obtain landlord approval if doing a mutual exchange

Some councils may restrict transfers for tenants involved in anti-social behaviour or with ongoing tenancy breaches. Policies differ by council, so check the specific allocation guidance for your area.

Your Legal Rights When Moving

As a council tenant, your right to request a move or transfer is protected by the Housing Act 1985, as well as your tenancy agreement. Mutual exchanges are specifically covered under Section 92. Your rights also include:

• The right to be considered for the housing register
• The right to apply for a mutual exchange
• The right to written notice of decisions, including refusals
• The ability to appeal or seek advice if you disagree with a council decision

In case of disputes or if you feel treated unfairly, you may approach the Housing Ombudsman Service for independent support.

Trouble with the Process? How to Appeal or Get Help

If your application for a transfer or mutual exchange is refused, you have a right to:

• Request a review of the decision through your council's complaints procedure
• Seek advice from the Housing Ombudsman if you remain dissatisfied
• Use the official complaint forms provided by your council

The tribunal responsible for most residential tenancy disputes and appeals in England is the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber). However, most move-related disputes are initially handled by the council or the Housing Ombudsman.

FAQs About Moving Between Council Homes

1. Can I move council homes if I have rent arrears?
   Most councils require your rent account to be clear, or terms for repayment in place, before approving a move or mutual exchange. Talk to your housing officer for advice on clearing arrears.
2. How long does it take to transfer to another council home?
   The wait can vary greatly depending on your area, priority band, and housing need. Some moves take weeks, but others might take months or longer.
3. Can I swap with a housing association tenant instead of another council tenant?
   Yes, if your tenancy type allows mutual exchange and the other landlord agrees. Most secure and assured tenants qualify.
4. What is a choice-based lettings system?
   This is an online system run by many councils where tenants bid for available properties rather than waiting for an offer.
5. What rights do I have if my move or mutual exchange is refused?
   You have the right to a written explanation and to request a review or appeal. You may also contact the Housing Ombudsman for support.

Summary: What to Remember When Moving Council Homes

• You can apply for a transfer, request a mutual exchange, or seek new council housing via the official register.
• Use the correct application and exchange forms—always from your council or landlord.
• Keep documentation and use support services such as the Housing Ombudsman if problems arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Government guidance on council housing
• Find your local council's housing department
• Housing Ombudsman Service – for independent support with complaints
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – for tenancy disputes

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1. Allocation of accommodation and transfer processes are governed by the Housing Act 1985 and detailed in the official guidance for local authorities.
2. For council complaints and tribunal appeals, see the Housing Ombudsman Service and the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
3. Official council housing move forms and procedures can be found via your local authority's website.

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