Moving Safely in a Covid market

Published on: 05/01/2021

A lockdown has been introduced in England until at least the mid-February half-term. We are all being asked to stay home, work from home where we can and all schools are closed with online learning for most.

Home movers are still able to continue and, as estate agents here at Millerson, we see this as a huge responsibility. We have many safety measures in place and will be ensuring they are followed for any activity. For the government’s latest advice please see here.

Can I still move house in lockdown?

Yes, you can still 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 and have a valuation.

All parties must follow the national guidance on moving home safely, which includes social distancing, letting fresh air in, and wearing a face covering. We have put together a useful page with guides here.

Can I visit other areas to move home during COVID now?

Yes. The sales and rental markets remain open. All associated activities can continue as before.

You are allowed to stay overnight away from your home if you need accommodation while moving house.

Obviously though, the government is asking us to use our judgement and only move if absolutely necessary.

If you need to travel into a different area, that activity can continue, if it can’t be delayed to a later date.

Can I view a property during the coronavirus pandemic?

Yes. But have a read through our guides and the rest of this article on how these should be conducted safely.

Can a friend/relative help me move?

Government advice is that people outside your household or support bubble should not help with moving house unless absolutely necessary.

Can I list my home for sale at the moment?

Yes. When it comes to appointing your estate agent, give us a call and we can talk you through our safe and assured plan. Our offices will be manned but not for public access, majority of our staff will be working from home to ensure the safety.

You can market your home and a valuer from Millerson can visit in order to value your property, offer moving advice and take photos/videos of your property.

Can a tradesperson/surveyor still come into my house?

Yes – tradespeople and surveyors still can enter your home. They will need to follow social distancing guidance, wear a face mask, and sanitise their hands.

What changes apply when moving home during coronavirus?

You can expect the following to apply as part of the “new normal” for moving home with us at the moment:

1. More is being done online

The process of searching for and moving into a new home is different because our team at Millerson, conveyancers and other professionals have modified how they work to reduce the risk from COVID-19 and protect the NHS.
These changes include doing more online, such as offering virtual/video viewings. We will require you to view online before we can arrange an appointment if you will want to visit it in person. Most buyers do require a viewing in person prior to making an offer.

2. Viewings rules

With physical viewings, the government advises 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 metre 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.
Homeowners should open as many windows as possible to ensure fresh air flow.
Estate agents and potential buyers/tenants should wear face masks during viewings.
Viewings should only take place once you have viewed the property virtually
The buyers should be in a proceedable position.
All parties should complete a Covid-19 Questionnaire

3. Valuation rules

With physical valuations, the government advice is similar to viewings:

There should be no more than 2 households inside the property at any one time. This includes the estate agent. Anyone in a support bubble with either household, however, will count as part of that household.
Valuations by appointment only to be carried out following completion of a Covid-19 Questionnaire
Homeowners should keep internal doors open and clean surfaces and door handles with standard household cleaning products afterwards.
Homeowners should open as many windows as possible to ensure fresh air flow.
Estate agents should wear face masks during viewings and use hand sanitiser prior to entering the property.
Initial valuations can take place virtually.
All discussions following the appointment should take place outside where possible.

We understand you may still have questions about your home move and have a team of experts happy to help and answer any questions we can, so please get in touch if you have concerns about your property move or want reassurance on how we can do this while keeping you, our staff and the NHS safe.