We are delighted that the property market is remaining open during England’s second lockdown and that we can continue to operate from our Guildford office. This is great news for our clients too – everyone involved in selling and letting property can continue so long as they observe social distancing. 

However, as we learned in March, there are lots of rules and exceptions to observe. House moving can be stressful enough without extra restrictions to consider and, if you’re finding the new rules a bit confusing, you’re not alone! 

In this blog, we look at which lockdown rules apply to the different people in the property market: sellers and landlords, buyers and tenants. 

What the second lockdown means for sellers and landlords

You are allowed to place your property on the sales or rental market during lockdown. You can let us into your home to photograph it, so we can advertise it online and in our window. 

Many people like to carry out a few home improvements before they sell or let their property, like redecorating in neutral colours or fixing leaky taps. Government guidelines allow you to let tradespeople into the property to carry out these jobs, although social distancing must still be observed. You’ll be pleased to hear that DIY shops can remain open too! 

Even if you do not live in the property that you are selling or letting, you are permitted to travel to it for any reason connected with the sale or rental. 

Viewings will be by appointment only and we will give you 48hrs notice. Current guidance advises that you leave internal doors open before the viewing, and clean surfaces and door handles after the viewing is over. 

Viewings should not be attended by more than two households, which means that in most cases, the seller or landlord cannot be present at the viewing. 

What the second lockdown means for buyers and tenants

Cobbles have tried to make viewings as accessible as possible during the pandemic. 

Virtual viewings are available for those at the start of their house-hunting journey. In-person viewings are by appointment only, and only for proceedable buyers, i.e. those who have agreements in principle from mortgage lenders, cash buyers or buyers who have already received an offer for their own property.  

At the viewing, you will be accompanied by one of our estate agents. 

Please do not attend the viewing if you have COVID-19 symptoms. Please let us know as soon as possible so we can rearrange the appointment. 

Travelling long or short distances to view a house, or for anything else to do with your move, is permitted.

Please bring your own hand sanitiser and wear a mask. During a viewing, you should touch as few things as possible – resist the urge to test the light switches! 

Outgoing tenants also have some responsibilities. They should not be present at a viewing as guidelines state that only two households can be in attendance. The exception is if you live in a house of multiple occupation (HMO) and there is a vacant room to let, in which case you should stay in your own room and not go into the communal areas during the viewing. 

Outgoing tenants should leave internal doors open before a viewing and be prepared to clean surfaces and door handles afterwards. 

Moving day!

When you move house, you are allowed to use a removal firm, but you are encouraged to do your own packing. Your friends and family can help you if they are within your household or support bubble, or if a removal firm is unavailable. 

Social distancing and hygiene practices must be followed by your removal team, whether they’re professional movers or you and your friends. Keep a sofa’s length between you at all times! 

We hope we’ve covered everything, but we also know that we live in confusing times! If you have any questions about buying, selling, letting or moving in England during the coronavirus pandemic, please get in touch on 01483 457 000 – we’d love to hear from you.