A lockdown has been introduced in England until 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 Coast & Country we see this as a huge responsibility. We have many safety measures in place and will be ensuring they are followed for any activity. The government’s latest advice relating to the property market  can be viewed HERE. We consider that these guidelines indicate the minimum safety measures that must apply.

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 supply all our customers with guidelines and request they confirm compliance prior to meeting with them.

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.  The property market remains open. However we make every effort to ensure that that a property is likely to be right for you before conducting physical viewings and have protocols in place to make all viewings as safe as possible for everyone.

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 go through our safety first approach with you. We are using latest technology to ensure safe and effective marketing of your home and current market conditions remain strong.

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

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 Coast & Country, 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 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.
  • 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.

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.

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.