Government announce a Three Tiered System of COVID Alert Levels
On the 12th October , the Prime Minister announced how the government will further simplify and standardise local rules by introducing a three tiered system of local COVID Alert Levels in England.
He set out how this new approach will be simpler and standardised, and thanked local leaders who have engaged with the government over the weekend.
The “medium” alert level – which will cover most of the country – will consist of the current national measures, which came into force on 25 September. This includes the Rule of Six, and the closure of hospitality at 10pm.
The “high” alert level will reflect many current local interventions, but there will now be consistency across the country.
This primarily aims to reduce household to household transmission by preventing all mixing between households or support bubbles indoors. The Rule of Six will apply in outdoor spaces, including private gardens. Most areas which are already subject to local restrictions will automatically move into the “high” alert level.
Property Management preparations for Autumn
We are into the final three months of 2020 and property managers are preparing for the change in weather, being sure that landlords obligations are adhered to and that tenants’ expectations are met.As the Government announce their three tier contingency plan, some parts of the UK will be under local restrictions, therefore it is important to ensure that Covid-19 Protocols are correctly adhered to when access is required for any maintenance or repairing issue that is required.
The following tips may be useful:-
1. The Heating System. A home does not feel homely when it’s cold outside, so this is the right time to ensure that boilers are serviced and that the radiators which will have been switched off for months, are working properly. Thermostats should be set to keep pipes warm and radiators that are not working effectively, may need bleeding.
As the smell of chimney smoke lingers in the evening air, be sure that wood burners and live fires are swept regularly. The reason for this increased frequency is that creosote is is given off by burning wood, which then attaches itself to the inside of the chimney. These deposits are highly flammable, and therefore need to be removed.
For a wood burner or coal fire remember that a fire guard is a requirement.
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’
New Guidance for Landlords and Tenants
This morning at 0.20 the Government announced new non-statutory for landlords and tenants in the private and social rented sectors. As the Courts re-open today this guidance may have been issued to clarify the position on certain key points relating to the landlord - tenant relationship:-
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Measures relating to notices seeking possession as amended by the Coronavirus Act 2020
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Health and safety obligations, repairs and inspections in the context of coronavirus (COVID-19)
This guidance is advisory and informs you about recent changes to the law. All guidance is subject to frequent updates and should be checked regularly for currency.
We urge all landlords and tenants to abide by the latest government guidance on COVID-19.
The guidance in this document applies to England only. Some of the measures referred to also apply in Wales. You can find guidance from the Welsh Government.
You can find guidance from the Scottish Government on these matters.