Moving Home - Information for Existing Council Tenants
If you're one of our tenants, there are several ways you may be able to move to a different home, depending on your circumstances.
Option 1: Transfer to another home
If your current home no longer meets your needs, you can apply for a transfer to another council or housing association property.
We use a banding system (A-E) to decide who gets priority:
| Band | Priority Level | Typical reasons |
|---|---|---|
| A | Urgent/ Exceptional | Redevelopment or decant, domestic abuse or serious risk, releasing adapted or under-occupied homes, statutory overcrowding |
| B | High | Serious medical or disability need, major overcrowding (2+ bedrooms short), Right to Move for work |
| C | Medium | One bedroom short, unsatisfactory housing conditions, or ready to move on from supported housing |
| D-E | Lower | Lower housing need or limited local connection |
View the full details on how to apply to the housing register.
Being flexible about the type and location of property can improve your chances of being rehoused.
Option 2: Downsize to a smaller home
If you have more bedrooms than you need, you can apply to downsize to a smaller home.
Downsizing can:
- reduce your rent and running costs
- make your home easier to manage
- free up larger homes for families who need them
You may also qualify for priority on the Housing Register or financial help through the Transfer Incentive Scheme, especially if you are giving up two or more bedrooms.
For details, contact the Housing Advice & Allocations Team.
- on 01483 505050
- email housingadvice@guildford.gov.uk
- or contact you estates management officer
Option 3: Decants (Moving because of repairs or redevelopment)
Sometimes tenants need to move because their home is being refurbished, redeveloped, or is unsafe to live in (for example after a fire, flood, or major structural issue). This is called a decant.
Depending on the situation, this move may be:
- temporary - you'll return once works are complete
- permanent - if your home is being redeveloped or demolished
If this happens, we will:
- provide suitable alternative accommodation
- cover reasonable moving costs (for example removals, disconnection/reconnection, storage)
- pay home loss or disturbance payments where eligible
Our approach is set out in the Alternative Accommodation (Decant Policy) (PDF, 175 KB)
Option 4: Mutual exchange
You can swap homes with another council or housing association tenant anywhere in the UK, if both landlords agree.
This is often the quickest way to move, especially if you want a different location or type of home.
Find out more about swapping your home.
Option 5: Sheltered or extra-care housing
If you're over 60 or have support needs, you may be eligible for sheltered or extra-care housing. These homes offer greater security, communal areas, and, in some cases, on-site support.
Learn more about who can get sheltered housing.
Option 6: Right to Buy
If you are a secure council tenant, you may be eligible to buy your home at a discount through the national Right to Buy scheme.
Need help deciding?
If you're unsure which option suits you best, or your circumstances have changed (for example due to health, risk, or overcrowding), contact the Housing Advice & Allocations Team.
We can help you understand your options and guide you through the process.
- Phone 01483 505050
- email housingadvice@guildford.gov.uk
- use our contact us form