Covid advice
During the pandemic permission to carry out a mutual exchange is limited to essential moves only i.e. domestic abuse or circumstances where a move will resolve a serious tenancy management concern. Please contact your local housing office to discuss whether an exchange is possible.
How exchanges work
Council tenants may exchange properties with other council and housing association tenants in East Lothian and throughout the UK. You can advertise your house online and search for suitable exchanges.
Things to think about
- You should not carry out an exchange without getting permission.
- You will not be allowed to exchange to a house too large for your needs.
- In New Build Properties, rents are higher than in older council properties and Council Tax may be higher.
- You will need to clear any debt owed to the council - i.e. rent arrears - before moving.
- You will not be allowed to exchange if you have broken the terms of your lease, for example with antisocial behaviour
- If you are a Housing Association tenant, please see the information on our Help for Housing Association tenants pages.
Incentives
Incentives are available to make moving easier, in some cases. If you down-size to a smaller property, you could receive £3000 - please go to our information on Incentives for down-sizing.
Advertising your property and searching for an exchange
Our search and advertising page will guide you through the process. If you prefer, you can ask for help at your local housing office.
Transfers
In some circumstances, we will agree to transfer you to another property. Go to our Transfer page to find out more.
Video
To see how downsizing by Mutual Exchange or Transfer can save you money, view the video, below.