Moving Between Council Homes in Scotland: A Renter’s Guide

Are you considering a move between council homes in Scotland? Whether your circumstances have changed, you need a different size property, or you're seeking a new location, understanding the transfer process is essential. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step explanation for council tenants who want to move, highlighting your rights and required procedures under Scottish law.

Understanding Council Home Transfers in Scotland

A council home transfer allows tenants in Scotland to move from one local authority property to another. Common reasons include overcrowding, needing a smaller home, changing family circumstances, or wanting to live closer to work or family.

• Transfer: Moving to another property owned by your current or a different Scottish council.
• Mutual exchange: Swapping homes with another social housing tenant.

Eligibility to Move Between Council Homes

Most council tenants in Scotland can apply for a transfer. Your eligibility can depend on:

• Having a Scottish Secure Tenancy or Short Scottish Secure Tenancy
• Meeting the criteria set out in the transfer policy of your council
• Not being in significant rent arrears or breaching tenancy conditions (some councils may still make exceptions)

To check your specific council's policies, visit your local authority's housing services page. For example, the Glasgow City Council’s guide to housing transfers explains their approach.

How to Apply for a Council Home Move

The process involves several key steps:

1. Contact Your Council Housing Office

• Request a transfer form or apply online using your council’s housing transfer portal.
• Explain your reasons for wanting to move—a change in household, medical needs, or location preferences can all be relevant.

2. Understand and Complete Required Forms

• Housing Transfer Application Form: This is the core document you’ll need. Its format and number vary by council – for example, the City of Edinburgh Council Transfer Application is submitted online or by post.
• Medical Assessment Form (if applicable): If your move is due to medical needs, you may be required to provide supporting evidence via a medical form or health assessment. Check with your council or see Glasgow Council’s medical needs process.

Example: If you need to move because of a disability, you would tick "medical reasons" on your application and complete a medical assessment form as instructed by the council.

3. Mutual Exchange Process

Swapping homes with another council or housing association tenant is known as a mutual exchange. Both tenants must have their landlord’s written permission.

• Fill out a Mutual Exchange Application Form, available from your council (for example, Mygov.scot: Finding someone to swap homes with).
• Both households must meet the eligibility requirements and agree to the exchange.

4. Priority and Waiting Lists

• Councils prioritise moves based on urgency—such as overcrowding, health needs, or risk of homelessness.
• Your position on the waiting list will depend on the council’s allocations policy.

5. Offer, Inspection, and Move

• Your council will contact you if a suitable property becomes available. You will have a chance to view and accept or decline the offer.
• Before moving, your current home may be inspected to ensure it’s in good condition.
• If moving via a mutual exchange, both homes are inspected and both councils (if different) must approve.

Relevant Legislation and Your Rights

Transfers and exchanges are governed by the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001¹ and supported by the Housing (Scotland) Act 2014². The main tribunal for housing disputes is the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber).³

You have the right to:

• Apply for a transfer at any time
• Know your position on transfer lists
• Challenge decisions or delays through your council’s complaints process and, if unresolved, via the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman or the Housing and Property Chamber

Action Steps for Renters Wanting to Move

• Contact your council’s housing office and request the relevant application forms
• Gather documents—proof of tenancy, medical evidence (if needed), ID
• Submit forms and keep copies for your records
• Check your application status regularly with your council
• If facing difficulty or delay, seek advice from your local Citizens Advice Bureau or contact the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland

FAQ: Moving Between Council Homes in Scotland

1. Can I swap homes with another council tenant in a different council area?
   Yes, mutual exchange is possible between different councils, provided both authorities and tenants agree and the eligibility criteria are met.
2. What if I am in rent arrears?
   Councils may not approve a transfer if you have significant rent arrears, but some may make exceptions in urgent cases. Speak to your housing officer early.
3. How long does a transfer between council homes take?
   Wait times vary depending on need, property availability, and your council’s policy. Some urgent cases receive higher priority.
4. What happens if my application is refused?
   You should receive a written explanation. You have the right to appeal using your council’s complaints process and, if needed, escalate to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland.
5. Are there fees for moving between council homes?
   There are no application fees, but you are responsible for your moving costs. Some councils may offer financial help in special circumstances.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Moving between council homes in Scotland is a structured process designed to match properties with changing needs. Remember:

• Most tenants can apply for a transfer or mutual exchange
• Your rights are protected by the Housing (Scotland) Acts
• Always keep in touch with your council and document communications

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• mygov.scot: Social housing in Scotland – Step-by-step advice on applying, transfers, and tenant rights
• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) – Legal help with housing disputes
• Citizens Advice Scotland – Housing Advice
• Contact your local council’s housing office for specific forms and transfer guidelines (search your council's website for "housing transfer" or "mutual exchange")

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1. Housing (Scotland) Act 2001
2. Housing (Scotland) Act 2014
3. First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)

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