Moving home during coronavirus (COVID-19)

This applies to England only

Moving home during coronavirus (COVID-19)

MHCLG have changed the guidance regarding moving home, which also covers having access to a property that is occupied.

Whilst employees are no longer required to work from home, the government recommends a gradual return to work over the summer.

Estate or letting agents may still prefer to currently carry out virtual viewings, before carrying out a viewing in person. The agent may ask, anyone attending the office to wear a face mask. Right to rent checks can still be carried out virtually until 30 September. Block viewings can be carried out however, the agent should ensure the occupier is happy with block viewings.

When the agent arranges a property inspection, viewing or permitting a tradesman into the property, they may ask the tenant to have the windows and doors open or ask for the tenant  to vacate the property whilst they have access. The guidance still advises agents or other people attending the property to regularly wash their hands and consider wearing a face mask especially if requested by the tenant.

If a tenant that is due to move into or out of a property and has received confirmation via the NHS track and trace to self isolate they should do so. This means that no one should be entering or leaving the property for the duration of them having to self isolate. This could potentially cause a few problems if a new tenant is due to move in as the move in date may need to be delayed .