- REIV said inspections were safely conducted during previous lockdowns
- Argues many are being placed out of appropriate housing
Calls for one-on-one inspections during lockdown have been led by the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV).
Currently, in Greater Sydney, one-on-one inspections are still allowed.
REIV argues that one-on-one inspection with an agent will allow people to buy, sell or lease under strict and safe guidelines, citing the proven protocols undertaken during Victoria’s lockdowns last year.
The calls come as Victoria’s current lockdown – the fifth since the pandemic began – has been extended by seven days.
The REIV said Covid measures include detailed record-keeping, masks and sanitiser on-location, the prohibition of touching surfaces during the inspection and the disinfection and cleaning before and after an inspection.
Gil King, REIV CEO, said that without inspections, many people are being kept out of appropriate housing.
“Vendors and rental providers are being pushed to the brink despite the sector having tried and tested procedures in place for inspections by appointment,” Mr King said.
“We understand and respect that the larger gatherings with public auctions and open houses may cause concern, but private one-on-one inspections are free from significant risk.
“We are seeing firsthand the mounting stress for people who are unable to find appropriate accommodation during an already difficult time.”
Gil King, REIV CEO
Leah Calnan, REIV President, added that such inspections should be allowed given the importance of finding a place to live in – especially for those purchasing property.
“It’s unfathomable to expect people to lease or buy a property without seeing it,”
“The removal of this key component of real estate due diligence is making things extremely difficult for everyday Victorians.”
Leah Calnan, REIV President
