We know the new lockdown and the guidelines can be confusing so this blog will help explain what you can and cannot do when it comes to moving home.
While people are only allowed to leave home for limited reasons, non-essential shops and schools have closed. We expect the restrictions to remain in place until mid-February.
The housing market remains open so people can continue to buy, sell, rent or let their properties as stated in the Government's advice however, people outside of the household or support bubble should not help you to move house. You can still move home with the people inside your household or support bubble. Estate agents, Letting agents and removal firms can continue to work. If you are looking to move, you can go to the property viewings once you've been verified by the agent.
You can market your home and estate agents can visit to take photos/ videos of your property.
Can I view properties in-person?
Yes in-person viewings are still allowed but some estate agents, sellers and buyers may delay these and direct buyers and renters towards virtual viewings in the meantime. Some property portals have introduced a filter that only shows you properties that have a virtual tour or video viewing.
During in-person viewings, these Covid measures need to be in operation:
These include:
- Wearing a face covering
- Avoiding touching surfaces where possible
- All viewings must be by appointment only and open house viewings are not allowed
- All internal doors of the property being viewed should be left open, and surfaces, such as door handles, should be cleaned after each viewing
- Windows should be kept open to ensure maximum ventilation
It is also recommended that the property owners wait outside while viewings are taking place to minimise unnecessary contact. Viewings must be delayed if a person is displaying symptoms.
Staying Safe while moving home
Removal firms can still continue to work, however social distancing measures must be observed. The person moving should do as much unpacking as they can themselves. The British Association of Removers suggests that movers clean their belongings before removal staff arrive and ideally leave the property while the removers are working, either by staying outside, or staying within one room.
For further information go to: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/government-advice-on-home-moving-during-the-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak
