Are estate agents staying open in lockdown?

Lockdown to last until at least February

(Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The prime minister has announced a new national lockdown across England, starting from Tuesday 5 January until at least February.

In a televised statement on Monday night, Boris Johnson said that the number of deaths in England is up 20 per cent week on week “and sadly will rise further”.

Mr Johnson added: “It’s clear that we need to do more together to bring this new variant under control”.  

This will mark the third time that England has gone into a nationwide lockdown, with the previous lockdown having ended on 2 December and being replaced with a three-tier system, which was later made into a four-tier system.

But what does this mean for estate agents? Will they stay open during lockdown? And can you still move house? Here’s everything you need to know.

Will estate agents stay open in lockdown?

Estate and letting agents can stay open during lockdown, the government website states.

Additionally, removal firms are able to continue working through the third nationwide lockdown.

However, if you are going to enter into an estate agent office, you are advised to maintain social distancing and abide by the rules with regards to face coverings. 

Can you move house in lockdown?

You can move home in lockdown. However, there are restrictions in place when it comes to the moving process itself.

“People outside your household or support bubble should not help with moving house unless absolutely necessary,” the government website explains.

This means that you can still move house, but you might have to ask those within your existing household to help you rather than anyone else.

Can house viewings still take place?

House viewings can continue in lockdown, however, the government has issued advice to those wishing to see prospective new homes.

“Initial viewings should be done virtually wherever possible,” the website states.

Additionally, if you are visiting a prospective house, you are advised to wear a face covering when doing so and maintain social distancing.

The government also advises arranging physical house viewings via appointments only.

When viewing properties in person, you are also advised to avoid touching surfaces wherever possible, wash your hands regularly and/or use hand sanitiser.

You can find out more about the government’s advice for visiting potential new homes and moving house here.