The Secretary of State for Housing Communities and Local Government has announced plans for restarting the housing market.
Estate agents and letting agents can now return to their offices and open their doors to prospective tenants. Initially, viewings should take place virtually. If that is not possible, then personal viewings can take place, but these must be by appointment only. Only prospective tenants who are able to complete a move should be given the opportunity to view properties – anyone who is not in a position to move should not personally view a property.
If the viewing is carried out in person, then social distancing must be observed and the current occupier should leave the property whilst the viewing is conducted. All internal doors should be left open and, on entry to the property, hand washing should take place. Once the viewing is completed, all surfaces, including door handles, should be thoroughly cleaned.
Of course, anyone who is shielding, self-isolating or has symptoms of the virus should not be moving.
