The Latest News on Property Restrictions
With The Prime Minister’s announcement last evening, and along with the unveiled 4 step plan into releasing England from national lockdown, many of our landlords and tenants may be wondering how this affects the industry in which we operate. And the simple answer… It doesn't.
In the first step of his roadmap, all pupils in England's schools are expected to return to class from 8 March, with mass testing and wider use of face masks in secondary schools. There will be a further easing on 29 March, with groups of up to six people or two households allowed to gather in parks and gardens. Shops, hairdressers, gyms and outdoor hospitality, as well as self-contained holiday accommodation, could reopen on 12 April. A review of international leisure travel restrictions could also be announced.
From 17 May, two households or a group of six may be able to meet indoors in a pub or other hospitality venue such as restaurants. Cinemas, museums, hotels, performances and sporting events will also reopen, with up to 30 people able to attend weddings, receptions, funerals and wakes. The final step from 21 June will potentially see all legal limits on social contact removed, with the final closed sectors of the economy reopened - such as nightclubs.
When it comes to property, The Prime Minister was fairly quiet - but as restrictions ease then we are left to assume that things will continue as they are for the time being. With this being said, we’d like to refresh you of the current conditions and restrictions surrounding the industry.
You are still able to move home, but people outside your household or support bubble should not help with moving house unless absolutely necessary. Estate and letting agents and removals firms can continue to work. If you are looking to move, you can go to property viewings. All parties must follow the national guidance on moving home safely, which includes social distancing, letting fresh air in, and wearing a face covering. Government advice is that people outside your household or support bubble should not help with moving house unless absolutely necessary.
You are still able to sell your house. When it comes to appointing your estate agent, give them a call to speak to them. You can visit an estate agent but many are only opening their office doors for people that have booked an appointment. You can market your home and estate agents can visit in order to take photos/videos of your property.
You are still able to view properties, With physical viewings, the government advise that:
there should be no more than 2 households inside the property at any one time. This includes any agent accompanying either party. Anyone in a support bubble with either household, however, will count as part of that household.
Viewings in person need to be arranged by appointment only. When viewing in person, you should maintain a 2 meter distance where possible and avoid touching surfaces.
Homeowners should keep internal doors open and clean surfaces and door handles with standard household cleaning products afterwards.
Estate agents and potential buyers/tenants should wear face masks during viewings.