Here are some questions that we are frequently asked about swapping properties.

Can I apply for a property swap?

You can apply for a swap if:

• you live in permanent, self-contained accommodation (for example, a flat or a house)
• you rent your home from the council or a housing association and have a Scottish secure tenancy
• the tenant you wish to exchange with rents their home from the council or a housing association and has a Scottish secure tenancy (this condition may be waived if the tenant lives in England, Wales or Northern Ireland)
• you have permission to make the exchange from your landlord, and the landlord of the home you want to move to.

How do I go about getting a swap?

First of all, contact your landlord and check that you will be able to swap your home. This is very important, as you may be evicted if you try to swap without permission. Melville will not turn down applications for a swap without good reason.

Will I have to pay?

Not if you use Melville's Swap service. There are other services available, some of which do charge a small fee.

What happens once I've found a suitable property to swap with?

Once you've found a suitable property, it's up to you to get in touch with the current tenant and arrange a time when you can view their home and they can view yours. You'll also need to discuss with them whether or not you definitely want to swap. Whatever you do, don't offer the other tenant any financial incentives to make the swap, and don't accept any bribes from them. This is illegal.

What should I consider before swapping?

Once you've found a suitable property, you'll need to check the following things before you finalise the exchange:

1. What kind of tenancy will I have?

   If you are moving to another council or housing association home in Scotland, you will probably still be a Scottish secure tenant. However, if you are exchanging with a tenant in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, you will get a different kind of tenancy, with different rights. This can affect:

   - the amount of rent you pay and how this can be increased
   - how easily you can be evicted
   - whether or not you have the right to buy your home.

   Ask the current tenant what kind of tenancy they have and find about your rights.

2. What are the terms of my new tenancy agreement?

   Even if you are remaining within Scotland, the terms of your new tenancy agreement may not be the same as your old tenancy agreement. For example, check:

   - how much rent you will have to pay
   - whether there are any other special conditions, such as a 'no pets' rule.
   - Are there any repairs that need doing? If so, check that the landlord will carry them out.

3. Do I have the right to buy?

   If you would like to buy your new home in the future, check if you will have the right to buy. If you have the right to buy already, you could end up losing your right or having to wait longer before you can buy. If you are moving to a housing association property, you probably won't have the right to buy.

4. How much does it cost to live there?

   Ask the current tenant how much their bills are for electricity, gas, council tax, etc. If you are moving to a larger home, they will probably be higher than you are used to.

5. Does the current tenant have any rent arrears?

   Be careful that you don't agree to pay any rent arrears built up by the current tenant. Check with their landlord if you're not sure.

6. Has the current tenant carried out any building work?

   If the current tenant has made any improvements or alterations to the property (for example, fitting a new kitchen or bathroom) check that they had written permission from their landlord. If not, this could cause problems for you when the landlord finds out.

7. What fixtures and fittings will be staying?

   Make sure you and the current tenant are clear about which fixtures and fittings belong to the property and which belong to you. This could include carpets, curtains and blinds, light fittings and white goods (fridge, freezer, washing machine, etc).

8. Will my benefits be affected?

   If you are claiming housing benefit, the amount you receive may change when you move to a different property. You can find out the maximum amount you'll be able to receive for your new home by filling in a 'pre-tenancy determination' form, which you can get from the council's housing department. Remember, you may receive less than this amount depending on how much you earn, whether you have any savings and who lives with you.