Once again, builders, tradespeople and contractors find themselves in the same situation they were in almost a year ago, businesses are shut, and most people are spending time at home as the government has taken drastic steps to help our NHS due to the outbreak of COVID-19. As the UK has entered Lockdown, some rules have caused confusion among tradespeople, as they are unable to work from their own homes.

However, this time we are more equipped to handle Lockdown 3 as society has become accustomed to it. This time, we are better prepared (despite the sudden lockdown) and the rules feel a lot less foreign than last time.

To put it simply. Yes. If you are a Bricklayer, Plumber, Landscaper, Painter decorator, and Plasterer (or any other type of trade), and can do so safely, you can work. However, it’s important to communicate with your customer, ask them what their boundaries are. Let them know what precautions you are taking to protect them, as well as yourself.

Things you may need to ask:

  • If you are permitted to use their facilities (Yep, toilet included!)
  • Allowed access to their water.
  • If you need to make arrangements with vulnerable or shielding customers to avoid any face-to-face contact.
  • Ask the customer to prepare for the works going ahead, for example to move furniture/decor (if they are able too).
  • Give a chance to the customer to express any extra precautions beyond what has already been discussed.

Might feel like a lot, but now more than ever you need to make your customers feel safe and listened to. This will also protect yourself in case you have a vulnerable person living with you or in your care.

Are Tradespeople Keyworkers?

Plumbers, Heating engineers and Electricians are considered key workers, so it’s more important than ever to provide a safe service during the pandemic.

How can Tradespeople stay safe at work?

Approximately 1 in 3 people who have Coronavirus have no symptoms and could be spreading it without realising it. However, tradespeople can continue working throughout lockdown. So how do you stay safe? Rules apply such as:

  • Keep at least two metres away from everyone (besides people in your household)
  • If you or anyone in your household has symptoms, you should not work and self-isolate for 14 days.
  • Clean your work area thoroughly before and after undertaking work.
  • Thoroughly clean all your equipment and tools that have been in a customer’s home.
  • Avoid touching your face and dispose of all tissues immediately after use.
  • Where possible, where protective equipment such as disposable gloves and a face mask.
  • Ask customers to make payments using online methods as opposed to cash, to avoid spreading Coronavirus.
  • Carry tissues with you in case you need to cough or sneeze, then dispose of them correctly.
  • Bring your own drinks with you if you’re working inside a house, to reduce contact with the homeowner.

When should I avoid work?

  • If you have any pre-existing health conditions.
  • Do not carry out any work for a customer that is showing symptoms or self-isolating due to Coronavirus.
  • Do not carry out any work for anyone who is shielding because of Coronavirus.
  • Do not carry out work if you feel symptoms of Coronavirus or have been in contact with someone with Coronavirus.

You must also remember to stay home if you or anyone you have been in contact with has the following…

  • High temperature.
  • A new continuous cough.
  • Loss of, or change in, their normal sense of taste or smell.
  • Is within 10 days of receiving a positive Coronavirus test result.
  • Is within 14 days of the day when the first member of their household or support bubble showed symptoms of Coronavirus or received a positive test result.
  • Has returned from a country that is not on the travel corridors list and is required to quarantine for 14 days.
  • Has been contacted by the NHS Test & Trace Service; you must follow the guidance on self-isolation and should not come to site.

For more tips on how to keep you and your team safe during the COVID-19 outbreak, read the government guidelines.

Business has slowed down since Lockdown was introduced.

Many businesses are feeling the pressure of Lockdown 3, however there are still ways to get new leads whilst in Lockdown.

Building Repair Solutions are always looking for skilled tradespeople in the areas we operate to work alongside our friendly insurance management team and policyholders. We will provide you with already quoted work close to the areas you cover, so you will always have jobs on.

Email hello@buildingrepairsolutions.co.uk to see how we can help your independent building business during these tough times.