Mutual Exchanges

If you have either an Assured or Secure tenancy, you have the right to exchange tenancies with another SAHA resident, a local authority resident or a resident of another Housing Association.  This is provided both residents have their landlord's written permission.

We will not withhold our consent unreasonably, but may do so in certain circumstances.  The main reasons for withholding our permission are:

• There is a Court Order for repossession of your home or against the proposed incoming resident; or legal action has been started against the resident
• The exchange would lead to one of our homes becoming overcrowded or under-occupied
• The accommodation is not suitable for the needs of the incoming resident

Transfer Policy

SAHA appreciates that many residents may need or want to move to another home at some point in their tenancy.

SAHA operates a points transfer system.

You can apply for a transfer under the following categories:

• Emergency transfer (including fire, flood and racial harassment)
• General transfers
• Sheltered transfers/applicants
• Supported Housing

You will be awarded points based on your needs, circumstances and length of time on the transfer list.

You must, however, fulfil the following two conditions:

1. Your rent account must be clear and should not have been in arrears during the last six months (emergencies will be considered separately)
2. You must have looked after your home properly and kept it in a reasonable decorative order

Your Housing Officer will tell you if you are eligible to apply for a transfer and if you are, will ask you to fill in a transfer form.  He or she will then visit your home to discuss your application in detail.

Because there is a shortage of accommodation available to let to residents who request a transfer, the Association aims to house those in the most urgent need.  This means that each case is prioritised according to the points awarded.  You may also be advised to look for a mutual exchange. Your Housing Officer will be able to give you advice and information, additionally you could ring Customer Services Centre and an officer will send you an Information Leaflet.

Moving to Another Area

If you need to move to an area where we do not have any properties, we may be able to ask another Housing Association or sometimes a local authority to help through one of the resident mobility schemes.  This is through a special scheme called H.O.M.E.S (Housing Organisations Mobility and Exchange Scheme).

You usually have to have a relevant reason to move, such as obtaining employment in another area or wanting to support ageing relatives; and you have to be eligible for a transfer in the normal way.  Only a limited amount of accommodation is available through these schemes.  Ask our Customer Service Centre for more details.