Housing market to remain open in tier 4

Estate and lettings agents and removal firms can continue to work during the tier 4 restrictions in England.

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Following the UK Government announcement, people living in a tier 4 area must not leave or be outside of their home except for where they have a specific purpose or a ‘reasonable excuse'. Moving home and associated activities within the housing sector are deemed as a 'reasonable excuse', therefore, agents can continue to work.

Property viewings are still allowed to take place as long the COVID-19 safety guidance is followed, which includes social distancing and wearing a face covering.

Whilst people are still permitted to move home, those outside an individual bubble should not help with moving property unless absolutely necessary, according to the guidance.

It is vital though that agents continue to strictly follow all safety guidelines for the market to remain open. It is advisable to postpone non-essential inspections or viewings of properties or, if possible, delay a home move at this time.

Everyone must still adhere to the hygiene measures in the existing Government guidance on moving home and Propertymark's best practice and guidance on house viewings, moves, and maintenance.

Tier 4 rules apply to all 32 boroughs of London and the City of London, most of Surrey plus Kent and Medway, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Hastings and Rother, Hertfordshire and parts of Hampshire, Essex, Bedfordshire plus Peterborough. Click here to use the Government postcode checker to find out what tier you are in.