Safety Guidelines for Realtors® Showing Properties During COVID-19

Realtors® are advised to take these precautions to help keep themselves and others safe from coronavirus as parts of Florida begin to slowly reopen its economy.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and federal and state surgeon generals, Realtors® must protect themselves and customers from exposure to or contraction of COVID-19. Realtors® are advised to follow the recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that are found here. 

Whenever possible, conduct all showings virtually. This is the best social distancing technique. If it is necessary to show a property in person, plan ahead with the owner and the buyer or tenant. 

Risk can’t be completely eliminated, but the measures below will help you prioritize safety. Please be sure to refer to state and local orders that govern conduct and may vary based on conditions in your specific area. Download a printable version of the guidelines.

Guidelines for Realtors®

• Practice social distancing. Stay 6 feet away from others. Avoid physical contacts such as hugs, handshakes, large gatherings and proximity. 

• Wear disposable gloves whenever possible. 

• Wash your hands. Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is a well-recognized preventative measure. 

• Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others and in public. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. 

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. Throw used tissues in the trash. 

• Ask the homeowner owner to wipe down all surfaces before a buyer or tenant is granted access. 

• Advise buyers or tenants in advance that they need to bring and will be required to wear gloves and face coverings and to avoid touching or adjusting their masks. 

• Consider market availability when requesting additional safety measures such as hand sanitizer and personal protective equipment such as shoe coverings or masks. 

• Consider using the Florida Realtors COVID-19/Coronavirus In-Person Access Acknowledgement form. 

• Limit showings to one group at a time to minimize contact, and schedule showings to allow time for needed cleaning of touched surfaces between showings. 

• Ask the buyer or tenant to limit the number of people viewing the property to only those necessary. 

• Ask the buyer or tenant to refrain from touching items unless necessary. 

• Ask the buyer or tenant to be efficient in minimizing the time physically at the property. 

• For vacant properties, discuss with the owner the plan for proper cleaning. Consider whether a professional cleaning service should be used or whether virtual showings are best. 

• Have the owner coordinate access for showings with the association, if needed. 

• Do NOT show a property if you do not feel well. 

• Do NOT show a property to someone who does not feel well. 

• Disinfect surfaces with the appropriate cleaning solutions. Frequently touched surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, keyboards, toilets, faucets and sinks. Most common EPA-registered household disinfectants, diluted household bleach solutions and alcohol solutions will work. 

• Do NOT conduct open houses. 

• Do NOT canvas neighborhoods in person (knock on doors, deliver door hangers, etc.) 

Source: Florida Realtors®