Lockdown 3.0 - Q and A for Letting Agents

As a result of Boris Johnson's address to the nation yesterday, many questions have been raised about what can and cannot be done in relation to Lettings, Property Management and Housing in general.

Here are a few answers to questions you may have in relation to navigating the day to day running of your agency.

Are Lettings Agents, Property Management Companies and Estate Agents permitted to open during the next Lockdown?

Yes, Estate and Letting Agents can continue to trade

Can offices open?

If members of your team can work from home, then they should do so. If an office remains open, restrict access and make sure that a “By Appointment Only” policy is in place.

Follow strict Covid Protocols and continue to implement Track and Trace

Can Viewings and Valuations take place?

Yes, however, the first option should always be Virtual Valuations or Virtual Viewings

Face-to-face appointments should only take place where it is absolutely necessary

Covid Protocols MUST be in place at ALL times and any person that is due to come into contact with members of your team MUST be advised how these protocols have been put in place to protect everyone.

Can existing deals go ahead?

Yes – Moving home is permitted and any agreed deals pre-Lockdown can go ahead. New deals can be agreed and continue to take place.

Can Inventories, Check-Ins, Property Inspections and Check Outs still take place?

Yes, but ALL Covid Protocols MUST be in place. Please note that video - Zoom - FaceTime can be used to conduct Property Inspections

Are maintenance contractors and engineers permitted to access rental properties?

Maintenance and Safety Checks along with essential repairs can still go ahead. The Government has issued updated guidance on Working in People’s Homes which must be adhered to. The Health and Safety Executive have also provided in-depth guidance for contractors

Can people travel to view properties?

Moving house is permitted and viewings can take place, but again the first option needs to be the virtual method. The Government are reminding everyone to STAY AT HOME and only travel if absolutely necessary. As cases rise across the country, stick to the rules.

Will Landlords and Tenants be aware of the New Lockdown?

The likelihood is that they will have seen the Prime Minister’s announcement, however, a newsletter advising them of the updates in legislation will be beneficial.

Can tenants who are shielding refuse access?

Yes, anyone who feels they are at risk or have symptoms of Covid 19 or have concerns about people entering their home, can refuse access. Please note that any refusal of access MUST be documented and accurate records MUST be kept on record.

Can an Employee refuse to be office based?

It is important that all steps are taken to ensure that the workplace is Covid Secure. All employees MUST be reminded and updated about the Covid Protocols in place and should an employee feel anxious about working in an office environment, discussions need to take place on how best to ensure that they feel comfortable about where they are working.