Strict safety protocols and technology remain key in the reopened rental markets of England, Scotland and Wales. Here we answer some important questions for landlords and tenants, from how we conduct viewings to advice for those experiencing financial difficulty.

Can I go on property viewings?

In line with government guidance we are operating a ‘virtual first’ approach to viewings wherever feasible, but as a second step can now arrange an in-person viewing where both potential tenants and landlords are in agreement, observing very strict health and safety guidelines at all times. In Wales, in-person viewings are permitted in unoccupied property only.

It is important to note that viewing parties must be restricted to a single household or those in a support bubble and to a maximum of two people other than in exceptional circumstances. Children under 10 years old are currently not permitted to attend a viewing. Babies and toddlers may accompany their parents at an occupied or vacant property viewing if carried at all times.

Can I go back for second or third viewings?

There are no official restrictions, but putting health and safety first, we must aim to minimise the amount of contact between all the parties involved in a letting. Wherever possible we will look to organise follow-up viewings in person. However, follow-up questions could be dealt with virtually, perhaps via a three-way Zoom or Skype call with the landlord, tenant and agent.

I am thinking of letting my home. Can I get it valued?

We’re adopting a similar approach to that of viewings, offering a virtual market valuation in the first instance. However, under the new guidance we are permitted to conduct in-person valuations visits, adhering to government guidance, so the choice really is for the client to make. The key, as ever, is to select an agent with very good local knowledge.

Can I let or rent a property without viewings taking place?

In line with government guidelines, we continue to offer virtual viewings as a first option. Virtual viewings have proven their worth during lockdown and we believe they’ll continue to play a role. However, you cannot capture everything in a virtual viewing and if a visit is possible it is advisable. We would suggest as a minimum visiting the surrounding area. Make sure you tell the agent of anything that is important to you in your choice of home if you are unable to view the property in person.

I’m a landlord wondering what protocols will be in place for viewings?

We have very clear protocols in place which follow government guidelines to the letter. If you choose to stay in your home during a viewing, you will be asked to remain in the garden if possible, or in one room. You will also be asked to open all windows and doors prior to the viewing.

Our agents will wear gloves, face coverings and if requested shoe coverings and those viewing will be asked to wear gloves. Agents will also carry hand sanitiser in the event that hand-washing facilities are not available. The aim will be to touch nothing – hence the open doors – but we will wipe any surfaces touched with disposable wipes to sanitise them after our visit.

A family member has been advised by the NHS to shield. What should we do about viewings?

If you or anyone in the household belongs to the clinically extremely vulnerable group as identified by the NHS would you please inform us so we can discuss what additional precautions should be taken.

We will also be asking all landlords and tenants important questions relating directly to Covid-19. If you or anyone in the household or your support bubble has experienced within the last 14 days or is currently experiencing any Covid-19 symptoms, or any general symptoms of being unwell, or have been in contact with anyone experiencing such symptoms within the last 14 days, please let us know and the viewing will be postponed. 

How are letting agents handling the check-in and check-out procedures with social distancing still in place?

It remains important to undertake the procedural aspects of check-ins and check-outs in the usual way if possible, except the tenant won’t be there at the same time as the inventory clerk. We are aiming for 72 hours between visits, so, for example, if an inventory clerk does a ‘make’ on a Monday and leaves at midday, then the tenant can get the keys on Thursday at midday.

The tenant is advised in writing to check the inventory and let us know if they have any comments within seven days. The same applies for check-outs with a 72 hour window (where possible) between visits and inventory clerks carrying out the check without the tenant present.

Are safety checks and repairs still going to be carried out on rental properties?

Yes, all our contractors have submitted Covid-19 compliant risk assessments and are following strict health and safety guidelines, including wearing PPE and keeping a two metre distance from occupiers when entering a property to carry out either a repair or a health and safety check.

My tenants are struggling financially and are unable to pay their rent. Is anything in place to help?

The Government has said that no renter who has lost income due to coronavirus will be forced out of their home and nor should any landlord face unmanageable debts. While a tenant’s rent will remain due for the whole time they stay in the property, if their circumstances have changed due to coronavirus, they should speak to their landlord or agent as soon as possible. They may be able to come up with a payment plan for a period of time. They may also be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay and Universal Credit to help with housing costs if their income has reduced. The Government has introduced new temporary changes to make it easier to apply.

What about HMOs – can tenants move in safely during Covid-19?

Renting in a combined household, especially when tenants don’t know each other, will be even more complicated than for a same household tenancy during Covid-19.

Anyone involved in the process must follow all relevant government advice and guidance and be compliant with the extra measures in place for each step.

Landlords need to understand everyone’s health status in relation to coronavirus. They should be asking current tenants and anyone wanting to view or visit the property if they have had Covid-19, been in close contact with anyone experiencing such symptoms, are displaying any symptoms and whether anyone in their household is completing a period of self-isolation or is in the high risk category.

These questions should be repeated each time anyone needs to visit the property and the answers should be in writing, making sure data protection rules are followed at all times.

Tenants moving into an HMO should do so on different days, ensuring any new items that are placed in the communal areas are disinfected, as are all the ‘touch points’ post each move in. People from different households should remain two metres apart, whether inside or outside, at all times during the tenancy.

• Information up to date as of 20 July 2020

Further information

Contact Savills Lettings