Government guidelines for homeowners undertaking home improvement projects

The last few weeks has seen the downing of tools by the majority of home improvement companies, following the Government guidance on staying at home and social distancing. 

Hazlemere’s customers have been very understanding about the situation we found ourselves in and there was nothing else to do but put all work on hold and go into lockdown with the rest of the country.

Now restrictions are being eased and the government is trying to get us all working again as quickly and safely as possible it is a good time for us to clarify current guidelines, as published by the government and our industry trade association, The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF), of which Hazlemere are members.

With the health and safety of both our team and customers being our main concern Hazlemere along with all other GGF members will be following the published guidance of our industry federation who have been working closely with government throughout the crisis. Indeed before starting any work in a property we will supply a copy of the GGF’s Safe Guide for Homeowners to our customers so we are all clear on the levels of Health & Safety required for work to be safely undertaken in homes.

Like any reputable company, risk assessments and training will ensure the team are operating safely and care will be taken to select properties where installations can be delivered within the government guidance. Sadly any work that doesn’t fall within the necessary criteria will have to remain on hold until a future date.

The latest regulations state that trades people can work in domestic homes, providing that no-one working has any COVID-19 symptoms, no matter how mild. Those living at the property will also have to confirm they are symptom free and that no-one is shielding or currently isolating. The only instance where a tradesperson will be able to enter the home of someone isolating or shielding is to remedy a direct risk to the safety of the household, such as a glazing emergency.

The GGF advice also includes the following guidance for homeowners.
Make sure the company doing any work notify you in advance of their arrival. Hands should be washed with soap and water for 20 seconds on entering your property and at regular intervals whilst working. If hand washing facilities aren’t available then hand sanitiser must be used, and those working in your home must carry it with them at all times.

Anyone working in your home should maintain at least 2m space from occupants and ventilate the working areas, easily done if we are removing a window of course. The guide suggests you make it clear which areas of your home are prohibited and clarify which part of your property will be visited. Floor coverings will be laid out and you should expect all surfaces that have been handled or installed to be disinfected at the end of each day, including new window or door frames and any glass, seals or beading.

And whilst it’s usual for our teams to really appreciate the offer of a cuppa, anyone working in your home should bring their own food and drink for refreshment breaks and lunch.

The full guidance can be read via our Helpful Guides section on our website and of course we are just at the end of the phone if you would like to discuss any of the above detail and the official advice regarding home improvement work in your home.