What To Do If Your Lease Is Ending During COVID-19
May 21, 2020
The COVID-19 disease has reached 213 countries and territories, affecting millions of people across the world. In Australia, there are more than 7000 active cases of novel Coronavirus. Nearly every market has been impacted, including the real estate market in Queensland. Many tenants who are at the end of their tenancy are facing difficulties in moving homes from one place to another.
Relocating a house in the middle of the COVID-19 crises can be disastrous for your entire family. During this pandemic, health experts are recommending people to stay safe in their homes and maintain social distancing.
But, if you are at the end of your lease and have no option than relocation, then look for
cheap removalists in Brisbane who can maintain distance while packing, loading and transporting your belongings from one place to another. Also, maintain proper distancing and keep everything clean and sanitised before and after the relocation.
Here is a complete guide if your lease is ending during COVID-19 pandemic along with tips for a safe and secure move.
A Complete Guide: What to Do If Your Lease is Up Soon?
Many landlords in Brisbane are aware that tenants will face problems in securing new homes, and they are offering relaxation options throughout the pandemic.
The Queensland government has also introduced a six-month moratorium on residential evictions and also encouraging landlords to waive off the rent during the COVID-19 outbreak.
You can also ask your landlord to extend your lease until the situation gets normal. So, here are some steps you can follow if you are at the end of your tenancy:
1. Immediately Contact your Landlord
It is good to contact your landlord if your lease is ending in a few weeks. Try to communicate via phone calls and emails and have a complete record of your lease agreement.
Here, the purpose is to focus on extending your lease – so try to convince your landlord or property manager by telling your financial condition. In fact, the state government is also supporting those whose lease is up soon.
2. Re-Sign your Lease or Opt for Month-to-Month Agreement
Finding a new tenant is always a daunting process for a landlord, especially during COVID-19 pandemic. You can also leverage the benefit of this situation and ask your landlord to provide you month-to-month lease agreement. By adding each month at a time during this outbreak, you are not locked in for the long-run.
If he is not ready for month-to-month rent, then you can ask to resign your lease. However, if you don’t want to stay longer in the current property, then you could negotiate for a short-term lease period, such as three to six months. This will save both the landlord and a tenant from committing another full year.
In case you are in the financial crises, then request your landlord to pause your rent until you get your salary. Make sure you do this at least two to three weeks before your lease ends because re-signing an agreement takes time.
3. Find a New Home Virtually
If there is no option than relocation, then you can search for an affordable home online in the area you are planning to move. Explore housing options virtually or contact the real estate agent to know more about the current value and other key aspects before signing the agreement.
It is good to narrow down your options to a handful of residential properties within Brisbane. If you are planning an
interstate house move, then you need to know the boundary restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
After finalising your options, do visit the place in person and thoroughly inspect everything before making the final move. Do not forget to wear mask and gloves, and wash your hands properly in every 20 minutes with soap.
4. Look for an Experience Removals Company
Moving a house in the middle of coronavirus crises can be very risky. If you are unable to extend your current lease, then search for the best removal company in Brisbane. Make sure the removals team follow the safety measures, wear gloves and masks throughout the relocation process.
A good company is the one who can offer you contact-free packing and moving services at the best price. Be sure that they come fully-equipped with disinfected packing materials and moving truck. This is important for you to take precautions seriously and try to
maintain social distancing with your removalists to avoid the spread of the virus.
5. Thoroughly Clean and Disinfect the Property
Cleaning and disinfection are the best practices that can keep this deadly virus at bay. It is good to remove dust, dirt and grime from different surfaces before applying a disinfectant.
Don’t forget to disinfect high touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, faucets, mobile phones, and other hotspots using a cleaning agent that has more than 70 per cent alcohol.
Also, clean and disinfect household belongings before packing them.
6. Self-Quarantine After Relocation
After reaching your new home, make sure you clean every inch of the premises and dispose of cardboard boxes properly. You can also
home quarantine for 14 days if you are moving across the state as per the safety laws. You can also self-isolate yourself along with your family – take it as a preventive measure.
Conclusion
Moving out of a rental property during the COVID-19 Pandemic can be challenging and risky for you. It is better to extend your lease by negotiating a month-to-month agreement. If your landlord is not giving you such options, then look for the best properties virtually and hire trained Brisbane Removalists who can provide you with quality service safely and securely.
