Here's how the coronavirus pandemic has affected house prices and the property market

On Monday the government introduced strict social distancing measures which discouraged the public from leaving their houses and saw the closures of non-essential businesses, causing disruption to the property market

Here’s everything you need to know about how house moves have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

What is the government advice on moving house during lockdown?

Speaking on March 24 cabinet minister Michael Gove said advised people looking to move house to delay if possible.

He said: “There will be specific circumstances where people will still be buying or selling, but if at all possible people should stay in their current home.”Speaking a day later Housing Minister Robert Jenrick clarified the government’s stance.

He said, saying that parties should all “show pragmatism.

He said: “Buyers & renters should, as far as possible, delay moving to a new house while emergency measures are in place.

“If you’re socially isolating or being shielded, it’s important to try to delay. Other parties should show pragmatism.

“If moving is unavoidable because you’re contracted and the parties aren’t able to agree a delay, you must follow advice on social distancing when moving.”

But what if I’ve already exchanged contracts?

New homebuyers who have already signed a contract should contact your solicitor and other parties to attempt to delay the move.

Although a legally binding contract has already been signed it should be possible to vary the contract so long as both parties agree to do so.

Property expert Henry Pryor told Which? that it is possible to add a clause agreeing a delay to the move by a sensible amount of time.