Industry big hitters launch ‘Coronavirus bible’ for property sales and lettings

Estate agents, removers, conveyancers, lenders, consumer organisations, energy assessors and surveyors have joined forces to create the ultimate Coronavirus guide for the property industry.

The Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA) guide sets out step by step how home moves can take place while still fully complying with social distancing measures and Public Health guidance.

Advice includes how agents should behave, deal with clients and do ID checks, and also recommends that customers should only visit branches by appointment, and that video viewings should be given greater importance.

It also tells agents how to check the COVID-19 status of occupants, and states that ideally one professional and two adults at most should take part in physical viewings, and that these should happen outside commuter rush hours.

Viewings

The guidance will also help industry professionals and firms advise clients and/or occupiers on how to prepare for viewings, and has been backed by RICS.

In accordance with public health guidance it advises high risk category clients and occupiers not to be present at viewings wherever possible.

Alan Milstein, Chairman of the RPSA, says: “This unparalleled cooperation by all those involved in helping consumers move home will ensure that the market can become operational as quickly as possible, and with the safety of all concerned, both professionals and movers, as the paramount concern.

Kate Faulkner (left) Chair of the Home Buying & Selling Group, says: “The re-opening of the property market is incredibly important for those currently stuck in properties which are no longer suitable for them.

“But both property professionals and consumers need to make sure they adhere to these new guidelines so everyone can move safely.”