As the tragedy of the Covid-19 crisis unfolds, the real estate sector should be aware that the Coronavirus Act 2020 includes some important wide reaching powers in Schedule 28 to deal with the increasing number of coronavirus deaths. This is a difficult subject but the powers allow the Government or local authorities to requisition “anything” that could facilitate the transportation, storage or disposal of dead bodies or human remains. This means not only existing funeral or morgue operators, but also potentially any operators of suitable premises and transport/logistics networks as well as other services and facilities could be called on to assist.

In this briefing we discuss the considerations for operators who may be approached by a local authority to assist on a voluntary basis or are issued with a direction under these powers.