From yesterday (Thursday 14th May) anyone in England wanting and able to move house can do so, as long as they follow new guidance the Government has published.
When the lockdown was announced in March, the rules changed so that people could only move home if they thought it was “reasonably necessary”. That meant that more than 450,000 buyers plans were put on hold. Under these new guidelines people can now start to move forward with their house moves.
Under the plans estate agents offices can re-open, viewings will be permitted – whether virtual or in person, show homes can open and removal companies and the other essential parts of the sales and letting process can re-start with immediate effect.
The Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick, commented “For most people moving home is not a luxury. People decide to move home because their personal circumstances change. We have published very detailed guidance, informed by public health advice, to explain how this can be achieved, with all parties observing hygiene measures and social distancing guidelines.”
Jenrick also announced further steps to support safe house building by allowing more flexible working hours on construction sites, where it’s appropriate and with local consent. Sites will be able to apply to extend working hours, with immediate effect, to 9pm Monday to Saturday in residential areas and beyond that in non-residential areas. Applications should be approved by local councils unless there are very compelling reasons why this is not appropriate.
“Varied start and finish times will make it easier for sites to observe social distancing, take the pressure off public transport like the tube in London, and keep Britain building.”