Prime Minister Boris Johnson has brought the country back into a national lockdown in a bit to control the rising coronavirus cases.

Whilst many businesses have closed, including schools, the housing market remains open. People can continue to move to a new home, buy, sell, rent or let properties providing they are following government guidelines when doing so.

The new lockdown is expected to remain until the middle of February in line when schools are to potentially reopen and will only be lifted once the pressure on hospitals improves.

Mark Hayward, chief policy advisor at industry body Propertymark, said: “We welcome the news that the housing market is to remain open throughout this new lockdown period, but it is essential that all agents continue to play their part in reducing the spread of the virus by following all relevant guidance on how to safely conduct viewings.”

The housing marketing is to remain open, allowing people to carry on with their move. Many families have realised that they have outgrown their space and need different rooms to accommodate the current environment.

Services which are linked to the property market such as solicitors, valuers, surveyors and removal firms will also continue to operate, allowing the property market to remain fully open.

Property viewings are allowed providing you are looking to buy or rent a property. Social distancing guidelines set in place by the government must be followed, and viewings must be carried out at specific times to that individual or family looking to buy or rent.

We recommend that you carry your own hand sanitiser and wash your hands frequently when viewing a property, whilst trying to avoid touching surfaces other than door handles, to which we recommend you should wear gloves. Young children are advised not to come to a property viewing.

When carrying out a property viewing, we will request that all doors and windows opened to allow for maximum ventilation and clear air circulation. It also means that no doors are needed to open, however, depending on the property and layout, some doors may need to be opened.

Property owners will also be requested to stay outside whilst a viewing is taking place in order to minimise contact where possible.

However, we are also offering virtual viewings for those who wish to see a property in the comfort of their home.

If you are looking to buy, sell or let a property, speak with one of our property experts today by calling 0116 266 9977.