Thinking of moving? Do you need a different size property?

Are you thinking of moving house?

If you are thinking of moving your Housing Manager will be happy to speak to you about your options. The Council has an allocations policy which is available free on their website and sets out clearly how it will prioritise rehousing. There are two main options available…. 

A Transfer…. 

A Transfer….this is when you register with the Choice Based Lettings scheme and join the list for the Council to prioritise you for rehousing and they give consideration to you being rehoused when appropriate empty properties in the area become available… 

Compensation for moving if you are moving to a smaller property… 

If you are a tenant currently living in a home that is too big for you and you are willing to move to a smaller property did you know you may receive the following amounts in compensation:- 

• Removal costs which consists of the hire of a removal van, the disconnection and reconnection of a cooker and telephone. 

• A lump sum payment of £500 for the first bedroom released, followed by £350 for each subsequent bedroom. 

Moving to a smaller property has lots of benefits including cheaper to heat, it is likely the rent will be cheaper and will give you more money left in your own pocket to spend. 

Another option is a Mutual Exchange… 

A mutual exchange is a self-help scheme, where you are expected to find your own exchange partner. (Another Tenant). 

Does the exchange have to be only between two tenants? 

You can swap a tenancy in a chain with more than one partner, such as a three-way exchange. You must get our permission before you proceed with the move and you must have the right to do so under Section 92 of the Housing Act 1985. 

You need to register for a mutual exchange with Choice Based lettings www.ellcchoicehomes.org.uk 

Tenants also advertise for mutual exchanges in shop windows or by word of mouth. If you would like to look for an exchange either in Newham or another borough you can sign up at www.homeswapper.co.uk 

There is a charge for using the HomeSwapper service which you must pay yourself. 

Once you have been approved for exchange, your details will be included on the mutual exchange register and you may be contacted by interested parties or you may contact suitable exchange partners. 

If you are thinking of moving – speak to your Housing Manager or further details can be found about the Councils Allocations Policy on their website 

www.newham.gov.uk/housing-homes-homelessness/apply-council-housing/1