New tiers and moving house

Tier 4 affects many millions of people and affected people must not leave or be outside their home except where they have a 'reasonable excuse'.

In response to the ongoing challenge of Covid 19, the government is regularly introducing new measures, the most recent of which being tier 4 which was introduced from 20 December 2020. Living in a tier 4 area means that people cannot leave or be outside of the place that they are living unless they have a reasonable excuse to do so. They cannot meet other people indoors, unless they live with them or they are part of their support bubble. It is only possible to meet one person from another household outdoors.

Tier 4 affects many millions of people and affected people must not leave or be outside their home except where they have a 'reasonable excuse'. The government website makes it clear that a reasonable excuse includes leaving home for:

  • work purposes, where the place of work remains open and it is not possible to work from home
  • essential activities, such as shopping for food and drink
  • education related to the formal curriculum or training, registered childcare, under 18 sport and physical activity and supervised activities for children that are necessary to allow parents/carers to work, seek work or undertake education and training

There are also other activities falling within the definition of 'reasonable excuse' and travel restrictions are extensive. There is a large list of businesses which must close but, notably, it is still possible to move home.

Estate and letting agents and removal firms can continue to work and people can go to property viewings. The guidance states that people outside a household or support bubble should not help with moving house unless absolutely necessary.

The government has issued national guidance on moving home safely (which includes advice on social distancing and wearing a face covering).

For advice on this or any other conveyancing related matter, contact us.