The housing market in England has been reopened, with home moves and property viewings and home moves now permitted following changes to coronavirus restrictions.
Following a change to the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020, which had restricted travel during the crisis, potential homebuyers and renters are now legally permitted to visit estate agents and to enter properties for viewings.
The change in the law comes after a seven-week freeze on the property sales and rental markets.
Under the new rules:
- Agents and members of the public are allowed to travel to view properties
- People are permitted to move home
The change is also expected to fuel a resurgence in activity in associated industries such as removal firms to decorators to solicitors, bringing wider economic benefits.
Health & safety
The property industry has welcomed the move, while expressing its commitment to adhering to the Government’s latest public health guidance on social distancing rules and the use of PPE and good hygiene practices.
Agents are expected to make greater use of digital tools across the rental and home buying process through video viewings and valuations, and electronic contracts and documentation.
Author
Gill Laing is a qualified Legal Researcher & Analyst with niche specialisms in Law, Tax, Human Resources, Immigration & Employment Law.
Gill is a Multiple Business Owner and the Managing Director of Prof Services - a Marketing Agency for the Professional Services Sector.
