Following the latest Government advice update on moving home during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, we just wanted to clarify our position and assure you that Louis Taylor will remain operational and we will maintain our services to meet client requirements. Here are just a few notes to help you to keep safe when buying or selling a property as well as moving home.
You are advised to ensure you follow the the latest guidance on practical steps to reduce transmission. These include maintaining a 2 metre distance apart where possible. It may also be a good idea to take extra precautions when in close contact with others, such as wearing a face covering.
One of the simplest steps you can take when moving home is to wash your hands frequently and keep as much distance as possible from other people who are not members of your household.
Property agents, conveyancers and other professionals have modified how they work to reduce the risk from COVID-19. This could include doing more online, offering virtual viewings, vacating your current property during viewings, and ensuring your property is thoroughly cleaned before someone else moves in.
Initial viewings should be done virtually wherever possible. Property agents should be able to help you with this. If you are visiting an agent’s office or viewing a property, you should wear a suitable face covering unless you are exempt. This should be confirmed with the agent before arrival.
Viewings should be arranged by appointment only and ‘open house’ viewings should not take place. When viewing properties in person, you should avoid touching surfaces wherever possible, wash your hands regularly and/or use hand sanitiser. If you need to be accompanied by small children, you should try to keep them from touching surfaces and ensure they wash their hands regularly.
If people are being shown around your home, you should open all internal doors and ensure surfaces, such as door handles, are cleaned after each viewing with standard household cleaning products. It is also recommended that you vacate your property while viewings are taking place in order to minimise unnecessary contact.
When moving between properties, you and those in your household should try to do as much of the packing yourself as you can. Where this is not possible, you should speak to removal firms in advance.
Full advice can be found on https://www.gov.uk/guidance/government-advice-on-home-moving-during-the-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak