As you will be aware, the First Minister announced some further lockdown restrictions – applicable to mainland Scotland – on Wednesday 13th January 2021. You can view these here.
The stay-at-home guidance has a specific section on ‘Tradespeople, home repairs, and working in someone else’s home’ which sets out that essential works can still continue – with appropriate safeguards.
Home moves continue to be permitted, and associated activity in support of home moves can continue as part of essential housing services including within people’s homes (where this is unavoidable).
The government have confirmed to ESPC that the further lockdown restrictions announced on Wednesday “do not represent any material change for the housing market and housing service providers, but it does underline the importance of adhering to the guidance. Where work is required to take place within a home, all precautions should be taken to ensure this does not put you, your employees and others at risk of COVID-19.”
Whilst it is still permitted to move home (including undertaking any activities such as viewing property in relation to this), the Government has asked home movers to consider postponing their home move if possible.
If clients consider it necessary to move home right now, Neilsons are on hand to enable clients to do this safely with the appropriate safeguards in place.
Our high street offices continue to remain closed, with staff working remotely, and we have an emphasis on “virtual first” for property sales with 360 virtual property tours and virtual valuations and appraisals. In many cases, Deeds can also be witnessed and if necessary, notarised via video link.
The remote operation of our phone network, case management, banking and communication systems which were put in place before the first lockdown last year are working seamlessly and our telephone numbers and email addresses will of course remain unchanged.
We would urge all sellers and buyers to ensure to ensure that they read the Scottish Government Guidance on Moving Home which can be viewed here and Neilsons are here to help for any questions you may have.
For helpful, friendly, and safe advice on moving home in the current market based on your own individual circumstances, please get in touch with Neilsons.
Book a free telephone consultation with Neilsons online here
