BCHF
Transfer or Exchange
How can I transfer to another home?
If a BCHF tenant wishes to transfer to another home, he or she must complete a new Home Choice Bristol application form. This should be sent to Bristol City Council at the address on the back of the form. You may also wish to let us know so that we are aware you wish to carry out a transfer, particularly if you want to transfer to another BCHF property. Your Neighbourhood Housing Officer can visit you to advise you about your transfer application.
All BCHF vacancies will be advertised through Home Choice Bristol. Please visit their website; a few properties may be advertised as available to existing BCHF tenants only and occasionally a direct offer will be made.
Exchanging your home with another social tenant
BCHF tenants are able to exchange with another council or housing association tenant once they have a full assured tenancy after the first year. Permission to exchange can only be withheld on certain grounds but may be made conditional on debts being paid, or the property being reinstated to a satisfactory condition.
When you exchange with another tenant you are 'stepping into the tenant's shoes' and accepting the property 'as seen'. We inspect the property before giving permission for the exchange but it may not be possible to see all alterations or damage when furniture is still in place. When you move into the home, any alterations not noted by the Repairs Inspector or damage to the property made after permission for the exchange is given, will be the responsibility of the incoming tenant. Similarly, it is up to you to make sure you are given three sets of keys, and other keys such as window locks by your exchange partner. If you do not have the correct number of keys, you may wish to request a lock change but it would be your responsibility to pay for this. BCHF will continue to carry out day to day repairs.
Tenants are now also able to register on the HomeSwapper website to find another tenant to exchange with. BCHF tenants are able to do this at no cost as BCHF is a member of the HomeSwapper scheme. If you would like more information about this scheme, visit the HomeSwapper website or if you would like help with registering, please come to the BCHF office or call and ask for the housing management team.
