Can I still move home in the current coronavirus crisis?

The Government has urged people not to move house to try to limit the spread of coronavirus across the UK. It has said that buyers and renters should delay moving while emergency stay-at-home measures are in place.

For the full details see this page of the Government website: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/government-advice-on-home-moving-during-the-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak

Can I still move home in the current crisis? 
There is no need to pull out of transactions, but the Government has emphasised that we all need to ensure we are following guidance to stay at home and away from others at all times, including the specific measures for those who are presenting symptoms, self-isolating or shielding.

In line with Government guidance, our conveyancers are advising clients who are ready to move not to exchange contracts on an occupied property unless they have made explicit provision for the risks presented by the virus.

The Government has said:

“Our advice is that if you have already exchanged contracts and the property is currently occupied then all parties should work together to agree a delay or another way to resolve this matter.

“Where the property is currently occupied, we encourage all parties to do all they can to amicably agree alternative dates to move, for a time when it is likely that stay-at-home measures against coronavirus (COVID-19) will no longer be in place.

“In the new emergency enforcement powers that the police have been given to respond to coronavirus, there is an exemption for critical home moves, in the event that a new date is unable to be agreed."

If your home is not yet on the market and you are thinking about selling, you can use this time to start gathering together all of the information you will need to provide to potential purchasers. Please contact us for a quotation and to discuss your personal circumstances. The Government has said that the buying and selling process can continue during this period but you should be aware that the process is likely to take longer than normal.

Boys & Maughan is dealing with my property purchase. What should I do?
Our residential property lawyers are continuing to work on hundreds of moves. They are regularly talking to everyone who is currently working towards selling and purchasing. 

Please view the profile page for your lawyer and keep in touch with them on their direct dial telephone number or email them to discuss your position.

Everybody is affected by the current crisis but no two transactions are the same, so we strongly recommend that you discuss your strategy with your Boys & Maughan conveyancer.

How can I get in touch with you if your office is closed?
Please view the profile page for your lawyer and keep in touch with them on their direct dial telephone number or email them to discuss your position.

You can still post hard copy or original documents to us or through our doors as they will be picked up. However, we would recommend that you scan or email documents where possible.