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Housing market remains open and repairs can continue in Tier 4 areas
Home moves and repair work can continue in areas living under the new Tier 4 level of COVID-19 restrictions in England and Wales, however tradespeople in Scotland can enter homes in Level 4 areas only to carry out essential repairs.
UK government guidance published over the weekend states that those living under the tightest level of restrictions in England can still move home, however they should not get help from anyone outside their household or support bubble unless “absolutely necessary”.
Estate and letting agents and removals firms can continue to work and those looking to move can still attend property viewings.
Meanwhile, previous guidance issued to tradespeople will remain the same under Tier 4, meaning repairs and maintenance work can be carried out in homes as long as social distancing measures are adhered to.
On Saturday prime minister Boris Johnson announced that London and the South East were to enter the new Tier 4 level of COVID-19 restrictions following a rapid rise in infections in these areas.
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Meanwhile, the Welsh government placed the entire country into Alert Level 4 on Saturday.
Guidance states that home moving can continue if the move-in date cannot be delayed until after the restrictions are lifted, while associated activities such as removals processes and property preparation can continue.
Repair and maintenance work can also continue in Wales if done safely, however the government recommends that people consider whether work can be safely deferred until after Alert Level 4 restrictions are lifted.
From Boxing Day, all of mainland Scotland will enter the Scottish government’s toughest Level 4 restrictions.
According to the guidance, tradespeople should go into a house in a Level 4 area only to carry out essential work, such as repair and maintenance that would otherwise threaten the household’s health and safety, as well as gas and other utility safety checks.
Tradespeople can also enter Level 4 homes in Scotland to assist with a home move.
Northern Ireland will enter a six-week national lockdown on Boxing Day, however maintenance work and home moves can continue during this time.
