Estate agents can continue to operate during second lockdown

It has been confirmed that property viewings and home moves in England can still take place during the second lockdown, which begins on 5 November and will continue for at least four weeks.

Under the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (No. 4) Regulations 2020 which underpins the second national lockdown, estate and letting agents and removal firms can continue to work.

A vote took place in the UK Parliament which came out in favour of a second lockdown and the Regulations specifically state that activities relating to the property sector are allowed to continue under exceptions to leaving home.

These activities include:

• visiting estate or letting agents, developer sales offices, or show homes
• viewing residential properties to look for a property to buy or to rent
• preparing a residential property to move in
• moving house
• visiting a residential property to undertake any activities required for the rental or sale of that property

Working from home

Agents should work from home wherever possible but if unable to do so, can work from an office on an appointment-only basis. It is vital that agents continue to strictly follow the Governments working safely during Coronavirus guidance.

Financial support

Agencies can continue to use the furlough scheme, which was set to end in November but has now been extended until the end of the national lockdown. Mortgage payment holidays will also be extended.

Mark Hayward, NAEA Propertymark Chief Executive, said:

“The news the housing market will remain open throughout this second lockdown period is extremely promising. We are optimistic that the current housing boom, triggered by both the re-opening of the housing market in May and the subsequent stamp duty holiday, will continue. It is vital that agents continue taking all necessary steps to reduce the spread of coronavirus, working in accordance with government and Propertymark guidelines, so the market can continue moving for the entirety of the second lockdown period.”

Find out more

Join Mark Hayward, NAEA Propertymark Chief Executive, and industry expert guest for our weekly Industry Insights Live Vlog where he will give an update on the latest legislative changes and answer questions during a short Q&A session.

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Kindly shared by NAEA Propertymark