The property market will remain open through the second national lockdown in England, with home buyers and renters able to move properties during the four-week period.
Following on from the government’s announcement of another national lockdown coming into effect from 5 November 2020, the Housing Minster Robert Jenrick confirmed on Twitter on Sunday that the housing market will remain open throughout this period.
In addition, Chancellor Rishi Sunak confirmed that the furlough scheme would be extend for another month – with employees receiving 80% of their current salary for hours not worked, up to a maximum of £2,500.
Jenrick’s update provided information on the following areas impacting the property industry:
Renters and homeowners will be able to move
Jenrick confirmed that “the housing market will remain open throughout this period. Everyone should continue to play their part in reducing the spread of the virus by following the current guidance.”
Estate agents and removal firms can operate
Jenrick’s update also confirmed that estate agents and removal firms can continue to operate during the lockdown as long as all parties follow the government’s published social distancing guidance.
Mortgage holidays will be extended
“The mortgage payment holiday will no longer end today (31 October) and there will be further information published by the FCA on Monday.”
Construction sites can and should remain open
“Anyone who cannot work effectively from home should travel to work and follow the relevant guidance for their workplace. This is essential to keeping the country operating and supporting vital sectors.”
Tradespeople will be able to enter homes
“Tradespeople like electricians, plumbers, repairers of domestic appliances can enter your home. They will need to follow social distancing guidance that has already been published.”
The housing minister added that all must follow the COVID safety guidance.
This article is only intended to serve as a guide on published information.
Resources & Guidance
- https://www.gov.uk/guidance/new-national-restrictions-from-5-november
- https://www.gov.uk/government/news/furlough-scheme-extended-and-further-economic-support-announced
- https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own
- https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-and-renting-guidance-for-landlords-tenants-and-local-authorities
- https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-decontamination-in-non-healthcare-settings/covid-19-decontamination-in-non-healthcare-settings
- https://www.gov.uk/guidance/local-covid-alert-levels-what-you-need-to-know#going-to-work–closed-businesses–safer-spaces