Company Operating Update (3)
Following the Governments guidelines announcing that Estate Agents can return to work, we would like to communicate to you what plans Oakwood homes will be implementing over the coming weeks. Our top priority remains the safety and welfare of all staff, colleagues, trades and of course all clients and members of the public.
Social distancing and non-contact will remain in place at all times until notified otherwise. Staff will wear masks and gloves at all times where appropriate. The Governments full guideline document can be found HERE.
Branches
Our offices will only fully reopen to the public, when we are satisfied we have appropriate PPE equipment adequately available and all our staff are fully equipped. It is expected that we will introduce a phased return to work of our staff over the next few weeks. We ARE still operating remotely. You can contact your branch on their normal number and specific staff on their email address and phone extension, during normal working hours.
A further update on our position will be notified shortly.
Viewings (where accepted)
All clients will be asked to use hand sanitiser and wear gloves before entering properties and requested to not touch anything. Where deemed necessary particularly in vulnerable cases, masks must be worn. All viewings will be limited to NO LONGER than 20 minutes maximum. If occupiers are present, they will be asked to leave the premises during the viewing.
For properties that viewings can still not take place, we will endeavour to offer 'virtual viewing facilities' through an online video walk through.
Property Valuations
Physical valuation appointments can now be carried out. Staff will wear disposable gloves before entering properties and requested to not touch anything. Where deemed necessary in potentially vulnerable cases, masks will be worn. All appointments will be limited to NO LONGER than 45 minutes maximum. Please note: We do offer a safe Social Distancing Valuation facility on our website, should this be considered more appropriate. This allows for a detailed valuation to be carried out without the need to enter your property. It will be conducted by an experienced property expert. Details can be found HERE:
Sales Progression
Our sales progression team have been working fully throughout lock-down and will continue to work hard in progressing any sales already instructed with solicitors. They can be contacted on their normal email and phone number with extension.
Inspections
All staff will wear disposable gloves before entering properties and requested to not touch anything. Masks will be worn. In vulnerable cases, tenants will be sent a self-inspection questionnaire for completion and return. All visits will be limited to NO LONGER than 15 minutes maximum.
Checkouts
The property will need to have been vacated for at least 72 hours before we enter. Clients will be asked to return keys to our Margate branch after the property has been vacated and thoroughly cleaned, so we are satisfied with the condition it is being handed back.
Maintenance Repairs (Lettings)
Trades will require clients to observe social distancing rules and if requested to vacate the room where any repairs are needed. General repairs will be carried out only where it is deemed necessary or cannot wait until another suitable appointment.
Mortgage Advice
Our mortgage team are fully operational and can be contacted at any time on 0800 035 0353. Face to face meetings will be conducted online through facilities such as Zoom. Appointments will be made in the normal way and any documents can be uploaded online.
We are here to discuss any needs or queries you may have, so please do get in touch with your local branch or department.
Thank you. Please continue to exercise caution and stay safe.