We are posting today to advise what steps we have taken already and the importance the group is placing on the current situation.
We wish to do our part by observing the following precautions in order to minimise any contribution to further spread the virus and assure you that despite any changes implemented to safeguard all concerned we’re confident that we’ll be able to retain the same high-levels of service for our customers that we have always aspired too.
Across the group, we have taken the initiative in ensuring all our employees are familiar with and are following Government recommendations as they emerge. In the event a member of staff develops symptoms or has been in contact with someone who later tests positive for the virus they will immediately be advised to self-quarantine for seven days.
All of our offices will remain open and manned unless we are advised otherwise, with the following precautions in place.
- We would urge that physical visits to our offices are limited unless considered entirely necessary, it would be preferable where possible for all communications to be conducted by telephone or email and not face to face.
- The delivery/collection of keys and documentation will still be possible under the 2-metre social distancing rule together with the provision of anti-bacterial hand gel (once this becomes available).
- Staff are regularly washing their hands in line with good hygienic practice.
- We have the necessary infrastructure in place to support home working should this become compulsory or in the event members of staff need to self-isolate.
When attending viewings, valuations and lettings related visits.
- We are continuing with appointments based on the 2-metre social distancing rule.
- All viewings will be conducted by a member of staff, we would also suggest that homeowners, landlords and existing tenants don’t attend the viewing to avoid unnecessary contact.
- Viewings will not take place if the subject property is under isolation.
- All potential buyers should declare themselves fit before viewing a prospective property. Our agents will use their discretion to cancel the viewing if there are any indications of symptoms before the viewing commences.
Over the coming days, we will contact all our vendors to ascertain their thoughts and opinions on the continuation of viewings and having fully assessed the balance of risks involved, determine the most appropriate course of action. Should you wish to contact us sooner please feel free to call or email us to discuss your personal situation.
The situation remains very fluid and as a business, we are ready to adapt and update our internal processes in line with Government guidance. We are also monitoring our associated network of solicitors, surveyors and financial services - who at the time of writing are like ourselves conducting normal business hours.
We recognise that current times are unsettling for all parties, and although much of what is happening remains firmly out of our control, rest assured that we are adopting all of the sensible precautions necessary to enable properties to be brought to the market and sales to progress.