Key steps to take when leaving your Habinteg home | Tenant news

Do you know what to do if you need to move out of your Habinteg home to move in with a partner or family member, relocate for work or because you’ve agreed a swap with another social housing tenant?

No matter the reason, it’s important to follow the right steps to ensure sure the moving out process goes smoothly and you don’t face any delays or extra charges.

Ending your tenancy

If you plan to move out of your Habinteg home, you must complete the notice of tenancy termination form and either hand it to your Neighbourhood Team or email it to our Customer Services Team at direct@habinteg.org.uk.

You should include your new address when you give notice so we can update our records and provide any rent account details you may need.

You’ll still be responsible for rent payments during the 28-day notice period, even if you move out earlier. If you need more time, such as when buying a new home, speak to us as soon as possible.

Before you leave, we’ll inspect your home and if we find any damage beyond normal wear and tear, or if items are left behind, you may be charged for repairs or removal.

We also charge for cleaning if the property is not left in a condition ready for the next tenant. Make sure any lodgers have left the home before your tenancy ends.

All keys must be returned by the end of your tenancy, or you may be charged for the cost of changing locks or gaining access.

Swapping homes?

A mutual exchange lets you swap homes with another Habinteg tenant, or another social housing tenant. If you want to make an exchange, you must:

• Be eligible under your tenancy agreement
• Find someone to swap with
• Get written permission from both landlords
• Complete all required paperwork.

If you move without permission or miss any steps, you could lose your tenancy.

To help find a match, you can sign up at www.houseexchange.org.uk. If you’ve already found someone to swap with, you can apply online through our website.

Relocating within Habinteg

If you're already a Habinteg tenant, you can apply to transfer to another of our properties if you’ve been a tenant with us for at least 12 months.

You’ll need to meet certain conditions, like having no rent arrears, keeping your current home in good condition and not having caused anti-social behaviour.

If you’re approved, you’ll go on a waiting list, and your chances of being offered a new home will depend on availability and your reasons for moving.

Switching housing providers

It’s possible for existing Habinteg tenants to request to move to another local authority or housing association home.

Contact your local authority’s housing department to apply for a tenancy transfer. In most cases, you’ll be asked to fill in a form or register online.

Whatever your reason for moving, we’re here to support you. For more information about moving or swapping our home, visit www.habinteg.org.uk/moving-home.

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