Update to our customers from the team at Hunters –
As we enter the second phase of lockdown our priority is to continue to do our utmost to keep or clients, the public and ourselves as safe as possible adhering to sensible guidelines whilst continuing to successfully sell or let our clients properties following government guidance.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government confirmed the news on Saturday evening via Twitter, some hours after Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the lockdown until December 2.
The tweet from Robert Jenrick, Housing Secretary said:
“Q: Can I still move house? A: Yes – the housing market will remain open throughout this period. Everyone should continue to play their part in reducing the spread of the virus by following the current guidance.”
That official guidance from the government is: “The process of searching for and moving into a new home is different because property agents, conveyancers and other professionals have modified how they work to reduce the risk from COVID-19. These changes could include doing more online, such as offering virtual viewings; vacating your current property during viewings, and ensuring your property is thoroughly cleaned before someone else moves in.
“We encourage all parties involved to be as flexible as possible and to be prepared to delay moves, for example, if one of those involved becomes ill with COVID-19 during the moving process or has to self-isolate. It may become necessary to pause all home moves locally or nationally for a short period of time to manage the spread of coronavirus. We will let you know if this needs to happen.
“If you are about to enter into a legally binding contract, you should discuss the possible implications of COVID-19 with your legal professional and consider making contractual provisions to manage these risks. You should not expect to immediately be able to move into any home where people have COVID-19 or are self-isolating.
“Those renting a property, letting agents and landlords should be aware of and follow the government guidance on coronavirus and renting which contains further advice that may also be applicable such as on possession proceedings, repairs, maintenance and health and safety.”
For members of the public – prospective buyers and tenants, as well as vendors and landlords – full information on government guidance can be found here:
Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.