Are tradespeople allowed in the home in England?

James Lee, communications director at MyGlazing.com, the consumer advice site of the Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF), comments: “As we find ourselves in another national lockdown, many are asking themselves if the latest Government guidelines allow tradespeople to work in their home – and the answer if you live in England is yes. Tradespeople are able to conduct work in homes across England, as long as the Government safe guidelines are followed, all relevant measures have been implemented and reasonable precautions taken.

“To ensure maximum safety for all parties, it’s essential that your tradesperson carries out a comprehensive health and safety risk assessment for the job and briefs their entire team on the guidance/risk assessment. It’s also worth insisting that tradespeople (including surveyors) working in your home are wearing all relevant PPE, including gloves, masks, visors/goggles, protective footwear, overalls and hard hats, especially if they are likely to be within two metres of another person during the job. It is essential that they plan their breaks in advance too, provide their own food and drink, and that they take breaks outside, or in their own vehicle, wherever possible. If it’s a large job, such as a renovation or extension, you should consider hiring a portable chemical toilet but, if this isn’t possible, the bathroom should be cleaned by the last person to use it between every use.

“As opposed to face-to-face meetings for the upfront planning, consider communicating remotely, by video consultations via Skype, Zoom, Microsoft Teams or Google Meet, and establish the ground rules from the outset to maintain a safe environment for everyone. Also ask for documents or information to be emailed. Some companies will even offer video presentations to view from their websites, so it’s worth asking if they offer this option.

“It’s also worth noting that no work should be carried out at a household that is shielding or isolating, unless the work is to repair a direct risk to the safety and security of the household. Visit Stay Safe with MyGlazing.com for access to the latest advice: www.myglazing.com/stay-safe.”