Search this site

Other housing options

Council housing isn’t your only choice. There are other housing options you can consider for finding a home in Sheffield that might work better for your situation.

Mutual exchanges

If you’re already a tenant with Sheffield City Council or a Housing Association, you may be able to swap your home with someone else. This is called a mutual exchange.  

When 2 or more social housing tenants agree to swap homes, particular rules applies.

Relaxed eligibility rules:

  • a couple in a one bed can exchange to a two bed
  • a family with 2 children under 10 can exchange to a 3 bed 

Not affected by the 2-year rule:

  • an active rehousing application isn’t required
  • there’s no time limit on when you can apply for a mutual exchange after becoming a tenant

To go ahead with a mutual exchange, everyone involved must:

  • have a clear rent account (though former arrears prevent the exchange)
  • pass a property inspection

Mutual exchange is a legal right under Part 4, Section 92 of the Housing Act 1985, it’s not just part of our policy.

For more information, please visit mutual exchanges.

Exchange your property with someone else

Property Shop: Mutual exchanges

Renting privately

Private renting is another option, especially if you’re finding it difficult to access council housing. It could offer more flexibility in terms of location, property type or how quickly you can move.

Some of the benefits include:

  • no long waiting lists
  • more choice in certain areas of the city
  • no limits on property size as long as it fits your budget

If you’re worried about being able to afford private rent, help is available. You might qualify for grants that help with bonds and rent in advance.

Our Private Rented Solutions (PRS) Scheme supports people in finding safe and affordable homes in the private rented sector.

Help with renting your property

Housing associations

Housing associations offer affordable homes across Sheffield. Rents are set in line with government guidelines and tenancies are often similar to council tenancies.

They provide:

  • homes for families, single people, couples and older residents
  • properties across a wide range of neighbourhoods

There are 2 ways to apply:

  1. Through the council housing register process, you can bid for available homes through the Sheffield Property Shop.
  2. Directly with a housing association. Some have their own application process outside the Sheffield Property Shop.

Sheffield property shop