KBB installers in Scotland can now start or continue work in unoccupied domestic properties, but kitchen, bedroom and bathroom installation in occupied domestic dwellings is still suspended.
In January, new rules meant that only essential or emergency installations were allowed to happen. The guidance was updated today (March 12) and states tradespeople can carry out work when it is essential or when the house is unoccupied.
The new stay-at-home guidance states: “The Coronavirus regulations require that work carried out in someone else’s home for the maintenance, upkeep or functioning of the home must only be carried out where it is essential or where that house is unoccupied.
“People must not go into other people’s houses for that type of work where it is not essential. This applies to anyone carrying out work, voluntary or charitable services. Businesses who employ people to carry out this work should consider if it is essential before asking their employees to enter someone else’s home.”
Installers can work in people’s home, but only when it is on the list of essential work for installers, which includes:
- To carry out utility (including electricity, gas, water, telephone, broadband) safety checks, repairs, maintenance and installations (where those cannot be delayed);
- To carry out repairs and maintenance that would otherwise threaten the household’s health and safety;
- To deliver, install or repair key household furniture and appliances, such as washing machines, fridges and cookers;
- To support a home move – for example, furniture removal.
The new guidance explicitly states what is not classed as essential, which includes cosmetic painting and decorating. Plus, any kitchen, bathroom, glazing, carpeting or electrical replacements that are not required to maintain the health and safety of the household.
The Scottish Government has also put in place Covid-19 construction sector guidance, which gives a comprehensive guide to health and safety and keeping sites safe.
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