Potential problems

The first thought that crosses most house swappers' minds is "what if they trash my house?"

Terms and conditions on agency websites clearly state the exchange system is based on mutual trust and the agency bears no legal responsibility. Members might be struck off if it's believed they've broken an agreement or abused the system, but that's little comfort if you have a bad experience.

All agencies point out that house-swapping disasters are rare: "You'll be living in your exchange partner's home as well, and their concerns are very similar to your own." All the responses to the "Can you help?" request we posted on our website were overwhelmingly positive.

Make sure your insurance company is aware of your house swap and find out if any exclusions or conditions apply. If you're planning to exchange cars, see if you can add your exchange partner to your policy before finalising the agreement.

Few people draw up legal contracts but written agreements help clarify responsibility for accidental damage, telephone charges, electricity bills and the upkeep of the property. Most agencies have a standard agreement you can adapt.

The easiest way to avoid trouble is to do your homework. Exchanges are only finalised once both parties have reached a mutual agreement - so ask any potential swappers plenty of questions.

Battening down the hatches

Take a few steps to prepare your house for your exchange partner:

• Tidy your home before heading overseas (put valuable heirlooms away in a safe cupboard).
• Provide clean linen and wardrobe space.
• Stock the pantry with some essential groceries (there's nothing like a cup of tea after a long flight).
• Leave instructions about how to use the telly, DVD player and other electronic gadgets.

In case of more major problems, leave a phone list that includes a plumber, an electrician, and a mechanic. And - as a final precaution - delegate a friend back home to act as a contact for your exchange partner. That way your guest has a "local" to turn to if anything goes wrong (and you have someone to check on your property).