COVID-19 has had major effects on the removal industry worldwide. Following the Prime Ministers broadcast on the 23rd March we endeavoured to complete work that had been started and by the end of March almost all our operative staff were placed on furlough. Our offices have remained open for telephone and e-mail correspondence but in the circumstances are closed to all visitors except by appointment or arrangement.
We are continuing to carry out surveys for forthcoming removals by video.
The advice issued by the Government on the 26th March in relation to home moving is as follows:-
Given the situation in the UK with regard to the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19), we urge parties involved in home moving to adapt and be flexible to alter their usual processes.
There is no need to pull out of transactions, but 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. Prioritising the health of individuals and the public must be the priority.
Where the property being moved into is vacant, then you can continue with this transaction although you should follow the guidance in this document on home removals.
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.
Recognising parties will need to alter common practice, we have sought to ease this process for all involved by:
What does this mean for my property move which is scheduled whilst the stay-at-home measures to fight coronavirus (COIVD-19) apply?
We are aware that some companies continue to operate and are accepting fresh instructions rather than just completing contracts entered into before the lockdown. We believe this to be irresponsible towards the staff and to society at large.
On the 16th April the Government announced a further lockdown period of “at least 3 weeks”. When, and if, the Government advice changes we will of course review our ability to confirm bookings. In the meantime, however, we are willing to accept provisional bookings for work starting on or after the 18th May but conditional upon the Government advice to moving companies changing and or some relaxation of the lockdown. European moving will obviously be determined by the requirements, not just of the British Government, but the European Governments. Payment will not be required until a booking is confirmed by us and our policy of reducing postponement or cancellation charges to 20% of the removal charge remains in force until further notice.
COVID-19 RA for travelling vehicles and cleaning common parts of vehicle
COVID-19 RA Physical Inspections by Estimator
Safe system of work removal activities