Scottish Government issues new guidance on moving home

The Scottish Government has issued new guidance on moving home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In order to minimise public health risks and allow home moves to happen as safely as possible, the government has advised that the following measures should be followed:

• Initial viewings should be done virtually wherever this is possible;
• All physical viewings should be arranged by appointment only and open house viewings should not take place. You should not view any properties if you have COVID-19 symptoms or are self-isolating;
• When physically viewing properties, where possible, you should avoid touching surfaces, wash your hands with soap and water before entering the property or use alcohol-based hand rub (hand sanitiser);
• The number of people attending a viewing at one time should be restricted so that physical distancing can be practised.  You should only be accompanied to viewings with members of your current household and/or your property agent;
• If people are being shown around or working in your current home, while you are still living there, you should open all internal doors and ensure surfaces, such as door handles, are cleaned before and after each viewing with standard household cleaning products;
• Where possible, the government recommends that you vacate your property whilst viewings are taking place unless you are conducting the viewing.  This is in order to minimise your contact with those not in your household;
• When moving between properties, you and those in your household should try to do as much of the packing yourself as you can.  Where this is not possible, you should speak to removal firms in advance.

Click here to read the government guidance in full.

Face coverings

Everyone involved in any aspect of the moving process must follow government guidelines on physical distancing, handwashing and the use of face coverings to minimise the spread of the virus.

The government recommends that people wear a face-covering during any viewing or valuation activities related to moving home.

Use of face coverings is not a substitute for physical distancing practices, which must also be maintained wherever possible.

Travel

Necessary travel involved in moving home, and associated activities, is allowed, according to the new guidance. 

The government suggest you should check the advice on how-to-travel-safely before undertaking any journeys in connection with moving home.

Vulnerable groups and those in isolation

Clinically vulnerable and shielded individuals will need to carefully consider their personal situation and the circumstances of their own move and may wish to seek medical advice before deciding whether to commit to or go ahead with a move.