Looking for a new home

Transfer to another area

We can support you if you want to move to another area. We can help if you are a housing association or council tenant. The area you want to move to does not need to be within Harrow.

You can apply to transfer to as many different councils as you want. Each council can decide how to rank the applications they get. They may give greater priority to people who have a local connection with the area.

You can register online for a transfer on the Locata website.

Another option may be a mutual exchange. This is when two (or more) social housing tenants swap homes with each other.

Tenants can move within Harrow or to another part of the country. This scheme is only for tenants in social housing. If you rent your property from a private landlord you will not be eligible.

Applying for a mutual exchange

You can register on any of the websites listed below. You can upload details and photos of your property online. Once you have posted your property advert online, we will approve it. When we approve your advert it will be viewable online.

Complete a mutual exchange application

When you find someone to swap homes with, all parties must complete an application.

  • Send your completed applications by post to: London Borough of Harrow, PO Box 1367, HA3 3QT.

Apply for a mutual exchange

What happens next?

  • We will assess your application. Then your housing officer will create a reference. They will send the reference to the landlord of the person you want to swap with.
  • The housing officer will inspect your home. They will do this to make sure that you have been keeping to the tenancy conditions.
  • Ask your exchange partner's landlord what type of tenancy you will get. Not all landlords offer secure lifetime tenancies.
  • Once all landlords agree to the swap, you will be contacted. You will sign the deeds to exchange your homes.
  • If a landlord does not agree, they have 42 days from the submission date to tell you why. 
  • You must not exchange your home until you have written permission from all landlords.
  • After you exchange, we are not responsible for clearing the property.

Home swap

You may be able to swap properties with a tenant in the area where you want to live. Find out more on the Home swapper website.

Homefinder UK

Homefinder UK works with landlords to make as many properties available as possible.

It may be the answer for you if you: 

  • are looking to move to be closer to work opportunities, family or friends
  • need to move to provide or receive care or support
  • want to downsize to a smaller property. For example, to reduce the impact of recent welfare reforms. Most opportunities are outside of London (not in the South East).

You may be eligible for the scheme if:

  • you are a council tenant in Harrow or
  • you are homeless and living in temporary accommodation.

If you're a private tenant or homeowner you will not be eligible.

Find out more on theHomefinder UK website.

Housing Moves

Housing Moves helps council tenants move within London. They give priority for applicants who are:

  • employed
  • work in education or
  • are care givers.

Find out more on the Housing Moves webpage.

Seaside and country homes scheme (SCHS)

The SCHS is available to council and housing association tenants over 60. Find out more on the SCHS on London GOV.