Transferring to another local authority home

If you are living in a local authority home and you want to move to a different local authority home, you should ask your local authority if this is possible.

Most local authorities will allow you to transfer to another local authority home in the same area if you meet certain conditions. You may also be able to swap homes with another local authority tenant, if the local authority agrees to it.

If you want to move to a local authority home in a different local authority area, you will have to arrange a swap with another local authority tenant yourself. You must get approval from both local authorities and meet the qualifying criteria to do this.

If you have a local authority home and want to move to a different one in the same local authority area, you can register for a transfer on your local authority’s transfer list.

Each local authority has their own rules for transfers, so the qualifying criteria can be different depending on where you live. The specific rules for your area will be outlined in your local authority’s housing allocations scheme on their website.

Generally, to qualify for a transfer in the same local authority area, you will need to:

• Have a valid reason why you want to move
• Meet criteria set by your local authority

For example, your local authority may only accept your request to transfer if you want to move because:

• Your home is overcrowded
• You want to downsize
• You need to transfer for medical or compassionate reasons
• You are a victim of anti-social behaviour
• There are other exceptional circumstances

You may also have to meet other conditions about your current tenancy. For example, you may need to have:

• Lived in your local authority home for at least 2 years
• No rent arrears
• No history of anti-social behaviour
• Kept your home in good condition

How do I apply for a transfer and what happens next?

If you meet all your local authorities’ criteria, you apply to them to transfer to another local authority home.

To apply complete and submit your application form to the local authority. Application forms are usually available on your local authority’s website.

Your local authority will review your application and let you know if you qualify for a transfer. If you qualify, you will be added to a transfer list.

Then when you are next on the transfer list and suitable accommodation becomes available, the local authority will contact you to offer you the home.

You may be able to arrange a private transfer by finding someone who wants to swap their local authority home with yours. Both households must meet certain criteria in this situation. For example, the swap must not mean there will be overcrowding in either home and the local authority must agree to the swap.

You can also arrange a private transfer with someone from a different local authority, once the accommodation is suitable for both households and the 2 local authorities agree to the swap.

To apply, you must complete an application form and submit it to your local authority. You can usually get this form on your local authority’s website.

If you want swap homes, you may be able to find details of other people who want to swap in your local authority’s office, in local newspapers or online.

Contact the Housing Department of your local authority for more information.