The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government and Public Health England have jointly published guidance in respect of allocations and transfers during the COVID-19 lockdown period.
Whilst all social landlords are advised to pause non-essential allocation and transfers whilst emergency measures are in place, essential moves deemed in the public interest might be carried out where landlords are:
- supporting victims of domestic abuse and people fleeing other forms of violence
- preventing severe overcrowding
- facilitating move-on from temporary accommodation
- facilitating discharge from hospital to free-up bed space for others requiring care
- supporting those living in unsafe accommodation, or without settled accommodation, which poses a risk to their health
Any transfers should be carried out in line with the governments stay at home advice as much as possible and if tenants are self-isolating then any move should be delayed. Any resident who is listed as extremely vulnerable should avoid moves, but if a home move is necessary then all possible measures should be taken to shield them from potential infection.
Mutual exchange should be discouraged at the moment via websites and email, unless it is for one of the reasons in the public interest as listed above.
If you require any advice regarding COVID-19 or any other housing related matters, please contact Anna Bennett.
