Viewing a house during the pandemic has meant that homeowners and buyers have needed to adapt to meet government and safety parameters and as an estate agent, we understand that this is an exciting but sometimes overwhelming process without the added pressure of COVID-19.
So, we decided to compile an article that addresses some of the most commonly asked questions when viewing a property and moving home during lockdown so you can be prepared as a visitor when you accommodate viewings and for your move date…
Can I view, buy sell and move house in lockdown 2021?
Sales and rental markets remain open despite the lockdown and any easing of restrictions. Estate agents, lettings agents, conveyancing firms, tradespeople, surveyors and removals firms can all continue to work.
- When instructing an estate agent they’re allowed to visit your property by appointment to carry out valuations, instructions and for any photography of your property.
- You are allowed to visit a property you are purchasing for a second viewing to measure up, allow a surveyor into your home and to collect keys to your new property.
- Any surveyors visiting a property will be organised in advance of their visit and will clarify ahead of the day as to which areas will be surveyed when they come to visit.
You are free to make or accept an offer or reserve a property as you normally would. It’s worth noting that if anyone in the chain develops COVID-19 symptoms it could cause delays and so seeking advice from your legal advisor is important to accommodate any flexibility that may well be needed.
What is the government advice on house viewings?
The government’s current guidelines state that yes viewings can go ahead with the correct safety measures in place.
As the owner of the property, you can be ready for viewings by ensuring all home areas are easily available with touchpoints wiped clean and by keeping windows, doors and access points open before and during each viewing.
When viewings take place face coverings must be worn as well as continuing to keep a minimum of 2 metres distance or even waiting in another room or if you’re able to by vacating the property whilst viewings take place.
Along with these measures washing hands and the use of hand gel for any household members and visitors entering and leaving a property is also essential with the use of separate/disposable paper towels.
How to safely view properties during the COVID-19 pandemic?
All viewings will be arranged by appointment only and to ensure we move within current guidelines we will not hold any open house viewings.
Are open house viewings allowed during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Guidelines recommend that all initial research should be conducted online however viewings will be offered by appointment when you have a strong interest in a home.
It is advised before and after house viewings that homeowners wipe down surface areas, handles and any touchpoints. The government recognises that agents will often accompany viewers to a property but where this is not possible it will be communicated to viewers and occupants as to how to protect the health of themselves and others.
Can I move home during the COVID-19 lockdown?
Yes, you can move home and you can, of course, seek the use of removal firms whom are fully prepared and aware of the regulations they need to safely follow.
It is advised that anyone outside of your household bubble unless absolutely necessary doesn’t assist in your move.
When you reach the exhilarating point of your moving day if you’re using a removal firm guidance states the use of face coverings and that hygiene measures are put in place to protect the health and minimise the risk to all parties.
We know that buying and selling a home can appear challenging and quite the process and with that in mind we are always on hand to talk you through the current regulations in place and to keep you up to date with any changes to ensure a smooth and safe move for you.
We have been expertly helping homeowners to move in Burnley, Nelson, Colne and the surrounding areas since 1928 and understand that a home is more than a home to our customers. If you need advice, would like to register as an applicant or would like a valuation then please reach out by email at [email protected] or call us directly on 01282 860606. To see our available properties, click here.