The impact of the COVID-19 virus on our everyday lives, not just here in the UK but on a world-wide basis, has been unprecedented.
As the virus tightens its grip, we are all adjusting to a very different way of life. For most of us, that now means a virtual lockdown situation.
In these very difficult times, we remain committed to delivering the best customer service we can to both landlords and tenants but we face increasing challenges as set out below:
- Current guidance from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), as well as the Association of Residential Lettings Agents (ARLA) considers lettings agents are not ‘essential businesses’ under the new rules and that our offices should close immediately. Furthermore, they have stated that there should be no in-person viewings, routine inspections or house moves.
- The British Association of Removers (BAR) has confirmed any house moves not yet started will not go ahead.
- Despite a raft of initiatives from Government to financially help individuals and businesses, some tenants are facing financial difficulty/uncertainity. We will continue to liaise with tenants as much as possible to understand their circumstances and offer support where we can.
- Whilst we continue to market properties and offer video viewings, understandably, we have seen a significant reduction (>80%) in the number of enquiries received.
- Regarding repairs and maintenance, we will continue to manage any urgent repairs reported but anything else will have to wait for now.
Finally, to all our tenants and landlords: “Stay safe in these tough times”.