If you’re thinking about moving to a new Spokane rental house, perhaps you’re also thinking about when it would be best to do so. Especially since this COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted everyone’s lives and plans. However, that shouldn’t be an excuse to place plans on hold — we need only to adjust to the new normal. By organizing and applying a few necessary pandemic moving tips, relocating to a new home safely and efficiently is possible.
Have a Backup Plan
Whatever your plans may be — moving by yourself or hiring a moving company — bear in mind that things can still change at any given time. When planning on which moving company to hire, first ask them about their cancellation policy, and if they require their workers to wear masks, gloves, and booties. Smaller-scale companies might be operating at reduced capacity, so make sure you look for one that is well within your budget for the services you need.
Stay Flexible
One of the most important pandemic moving tips is for you to remain flexible despite sudden changes. Remember to be cautious at any given time because anyone in your home can get sick, given the contagious nature of the coronavirus. When you start to see or experience symptoms, the right thing to do is to postpone your move. For the safety of your community, tell your neighbors about it, too. That way they can help prevent the spread of the virus. This is also being considerate towards neighbors with compromised immune systems, or those who are just more susceptible to the virus. Informing them of your move will give them a heads up as to when they should steer clear of your area.
Keep Your Distance
If you’re renting a van or any vehicle, make the transaction online or over the phone. Just don’t forget to ask about sanitization procedures! If hiring a moving company, ask them to give you a virtual quote. It is well within your rights as a customer to ask if contact will be required on the day of the move; if so, what precautions are to be taken for safety? Practice the no-handshake protocol during the move. Make sure the movers are aware of this, as well.
Take Safety Precautions
Be sure to take extra precautions before and during the move so that you and everyone else around you is safe. As much as you can, purchase new boxes for your moving needs. Don’t resort to obtaining containers elsewhere. Studies show that the coronavirus can live on cardboard for up to 24 hours. During the move, be sure to wear a mask, gloves, and booties, and disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs and light switches. Finally, be sure to have soap and hand sanitizer close by to encourage regular hand washing. When it comes to supplies, you can expect moving companies to have their own. But, providing some, just in case, won’t hurt.
Don’t Just Clean – Disinfect
As you move out of your old home, be thorough in making sure that you use disinfecting products to eliminate the virus. Furniture and other items should also be cleaned and disinfected as much as possible. Also, do the same before moving into your new property — clean and disinfect. This helps in preventing the spread of the virus, especially because the virus can latch on to any of your belongings.
Though the COVID-19 pandemic has interrupted everyone’s daily flow of life, it doesn’t mean we can’t move forward. Through the application of these pandemic moving tips, you can still pursue your plan of moving to a new home!
Are you in the market for a clean new Spokane rental home? The team at Real Property Management Spokane County is here to help. Contact us online or call 509-462-1042 today!
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