Government Updates: Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19)
ENGLAND
24th September 2020 - As a result of the changes announced by the Government, it is important that agents review their Covid-19 Protocols. As with the reopening of the housing market in early May 2020, opt for and promote the use of virtual viewings and valuations before making plans for face to face appointments.
Crucial FAQs
Should offices remain open?
Offices can remain open, however Government guidance states that where possible, work from home. For those working in an office environment, ensure Covid-19 Protocols are in place. Remember no one should be in a work environment if they have any COVID-19 symptoms.
Put in place a ‘locked door’ policy and advice clients and potential clients that access is “by appointment only’
Government suspension on Housing Possessions extended by 2 months
Millions of renters across England and Wales will receive greater protection after the government extended the suspension of new evictions until 23 August.
The extension announced by the Housing Secretary yesterday takes the moratorium on evictions to a total of five months to ensure that renters continue to have certainty and security.
Ministers are also working with the judiciary, legal representatives and the advice sector on arrangements, including new rules, which will mean that courts are better able to address the need for appropriate protection of all parties, including those shielding from coronavirus. This is to ensure that judges have all the information necessary to make just decisions and that the most vulnerable tenants can get the help they need.
What have the last 5 weeks taught Us?
When there’s not a lot to do, apart from rest (talking about myself), the mind goes into overdrive and Covid-19 has given us a huge amount to think about. When the good times are in abundance, no one really gives it a second thought but it’s crisis, tragedy, anguish, pain that truly bring us together. We have nothing to compare this situation, all we can do is refer back to historical events. I read somewhere at the beginning of the pandemic that the virus does not discriminate. However, bear in mind that not everyone is in a position of privilege, and some have been more affected than others.
In the House of Lords, there are more than 10 Lords a Leaping
If you have ever attended a tour of the Houses of Parliament, you will be well-informed about the history of the incredible building known as the Palace of Westminster. The palace is divided into two houses - the House of Commons where the elected MPs sit/meet and the House of Lords where, well, obviously the Lords reside.
The tours that are conducted by very knowledgable guides and sometimes, MPs, are educational and extremely informative, not only providing a snapshot of the political system and how the two Houses work, it also serves as an amazing history lesson.