If you're a secure council or housing association tenant and want to move, a mutual exchange could be a quicker option than joining the housing waiting list. You can swap your home with another Rugby Borough Council tenant, or with a tenant from another council or housing association.
To apply for a mutual exchange, you need to have a secure, fixed-term assured shorthold, or assured tenancy that includes the right to exchange.
Some common reasons a mutual exchange request may be refused include:
Rugby Borough Council subscribes to Homeswapper the UK's leading mutual exchange platform. It’s free for our tenants to use and gives you access to thousands of potential swap partners across the country.
Visit Homeswapper and register for free.
Once you have registered, you will have to provide:
For tips on how to make the most of Homeswapper, visit: https://www.homeswapper.co.uk/Account/Register
Important: You have the responsibility of arranging to view properties you’re interested in. You take a mutual exchange property in the condition you view it. However, the council will continue to carry out repairs and improvements in line with responsibilities set out in your tenancy agreement.
Once you’ve found a suitable property for exchange, follow these steps:
Everyone involved in the mutual exchange (including tenants from other housing providers) must complete a Mutual Exchange Application Form. This applies to all exchanges, whether between two or more households. The form is available to download here or you can request a copy by contacting Housing Services at HousingOfficers@rugby.gov.uk or by phoning our Customer Service Team on 01788 533533.
If you are not confident using online tools or would like support completing the application, please contact us. We can offer assistance by phone, in person or via printed resources.
Return the completed form to your Housing Officer
By email: HousingOfficers@rugby.gov.uk
Or by post: Housing Services, Rugby Borough Council, Town Hall, Evreux Way, Rugby CV21 2RR
Your Housing Officer will assess your eligibility and conduct necessary checks. This includes property inspections, references for the incoming tenant, and ID verification for the right to rent. All household members over the age of 18 will need to provide identification. This process must be completed within 42 days from the date the completed applications are received from both tenants.
After the review, your Housing Officer will issue a final decision. The 42-day period ensures the decision is made in a timely manner, though it doesn’t mean you must move within this time frame.
If your mutual exchange is approved, you can arrange the move.
For more information or assistance with using Homeswapper, or if you need advice about the mutual exchange process, contact us by email: contact.centre@rugby.gov.uk or call our Customer Service Team on 01755 533533. We're here to help you through every step of the process.