Advice issued by the UK government on 26 March 2020 says that it is not necessary to pull out of moving transactions as long as the 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, are met.

Where the property being moved into is vacant, then the transaction can continue. Where the property is currently occupied, all parties are encourage 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.

There will be a small number of moves that need to go ahead. The government urges everyone to take all sensible precautions to ensure the move can happen safely.

• Removers should honour their existing commitments where the move can be done safely for the client and moving staff and it is clear that the moving date cannot be moved.

• Removers should follow the latest Government guidance which currently (26 March 2020) states that work carried out in people’s homes can continue, provided the tradesperson is well and has no symptoms or coronavirus (COVID-19).

• It is important to ensure government guidelines are followed, including maintaining a 2-metre distance from others, and washing their hands with soap and water often for at least 20 seconds (or using hand sanitiser gel if soap and water is not available).

• No work should be carried out by a person who has coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms, however mild.