House swapping

How do you go about finding out about house swaps for vacations? I want to know if there are any legitimate agencies or companies that handle such things or if you have to arrange it yourself.

My husband likes the idea but I'm not keen. I would need some questions answered first, such as:

• What happens if there is accidental damage during the vacation period (to your house or theirs)?


• How can you know the people that stay in your house can be trusted?


• Can you take your pets too?


• What if you don't like the other person's house once you get there?

Any thoughts on house swapping and ideas on how to pursue this would be welcomed as would any personal experiences of this. Is it a good idea or not? Thanks!