Updated guidance for estate agents ahead of easing restrictions

The government has confirmed England’s lockdown laws will end as planned on 19 July, but there will now be a whole host of guidance agents are required to follow.

The one month delay to step 4 of the government’s Roadmap has also moved the end of restrictions closer to the school summer holidays.

The Prime Minister yesterday emphasised caution and the expectation for a gradual easing of restrictions, based on informed choice and personal responsibility. Last week he set out a five-point plan to manage the risks while learning to live with covid.

Following updates from the prime minister and secretary of state for health and social care about the Roadmap yesterday, Propertymark updated its guidance for agents.

The largest changes come from the number of tasks which no longer need to be carried out remotely as there will be no continued requirement to work from home and employers can start to plan a return to workplaces.

And whilst no social distancing is required between staff, Propertymark says “businesses should consider the risks. If anyone develops COVID-19 symptoms, they should self-isolate immediately and get a PCR test, even if the symptoms are mild”.

Propertymark have also tackled the tricky subject of face coverings, saying, “Face coverings will not be legally required but they are advisory for agents and clients. It is important that agents are sensitive to vulnerabilities and anxieties that clients and staff alike may have.”

Boris Johnson said yesterday that the government “expect and recommend that people wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces where you come into contact with those you don’t normally meet”.

The updated guidance also states that, “No viewing should take place if any person in a property is showing symptoms of Coronavirus or self-isolating”.

The government will review the current guidance in September.