Housing Market remains open during latest lockdown

Moving home safely in England and following government guidelines during the third national lockdown.

Whilst England has once again been plunged into a third national lockdown, the Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed that the housing market can remain open so that buying, selling and letting activities/transactions can continue. These new stricter restrictions announced by the PM on Monday night have been brought in across the country and closely resemble the lockdown back in March/April 2020. This is primarily due to the closure of most other services around the country, but one of the key differences this time is that the housing market can remain open for business. These latest restrictions are expected to stay in place until at least mid-February, when their effectiveness in combatting the spread of the virus will once again be reviewed.

The government advice on moving home during the Covid-19 pandemic remains unchanged. This means that people who are moving home in England will still be able to move and importantly, estate agents, removal firms and tradespeople can still operate by going inside homes. However, strict adherence to government safety guidance and social distancing restrictions remain crucial to prevent the spread of the virus.

The third and latest lockdown was considered necessary by the government. This was partly due to a new and more infectious strain of the virus and the worryingly steep rise in Coronavirus cases all over the country, which has seen the NHS and hospitals overwhelmed by Covid-19 admissions.

The PM ordered the closure of all colleges/schools/universities and non-essential shops for at least 6 weeks in a serious attempt to slow down the virus and the rate of increase in Covid-19 infections.

Commenting on the housing market during the latest national lockdown, Propertymark’s Chief Advisor - Mark Hayward said: “We welcome the news that the housing market is to remain open throughout this new lockdown period, but it is essential that all agents continue to play their part in reducing the spread of the virus through following all relevant guidance on how to safely conduct viewings.

“It is vital that agents operate in accordance with government and Propertymark guidelines to help prevent the spread of Covid-19, keep movers and buyers safe and keep the housing market moving through these uncertain times.”

The latest key government advice on moving home safely:-

You can still move home. People outside your household or support bubble should not help with moving house unless absolutely necessary.

Estate and letting agents and removals firms can continue to work. If you are looking to move, you can go to property viewings.

Follow the national guidance on moving home safely, which includes advice on social distancing, letting fresh air in, and wearing a face
covering.

For further up-to-date details, please check the government's Coronavirus national lockdown website:- www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home