Letting agents can make sure prospective renters are Covid-free before doing physical viewings using a new self-screening bot.

The online tool from communication provider Moneypenny checks prospective viewers are in good health by quizzing them to find out whether anyone is self-isolating, has any Covid symptoms, has come into contact with anyone who has, or is suspected of having the virus or if they feel unwell.

Agents can integrate the bot into their online viewing booking system, or share a link to a brand-customised page. They can then access full analytics via an individual portal and get a real-time response email for every completed questionnaire. Based on the answers, they can also escalate chats to either their own in-house staff, or to a Moneypenny receptionist.

CEO Joanna Swash (left) says the tool will help agents stay efficient and operational during the pandemic. She says, “We’ve developed this tool specifically to offer extra reassurance and give confidence to the property market and because it seemed a very natural extension to the support we offer estate and letting agents.

“By using the bot, vendors and viewers will know that both parties are symptom-free before they come into contact with each other, and agents can rest assured that they’ve done as much as possible to protect their clients.”

She adds that it’s not a substitute for observing social distancing and extra hand hygiene. “It’s an extra layer of safety and due diligence to help the property market thrive again.”