Can Tradesmen still work during Covid-19 Lockdown?

During Covid-19 lockdowns, non-essential construction and home improvement work has been suspended, however there are some exceptions to this rule

On March 27th, the public entered a new lockdown phase of the Irish government's response to Covid-19. Onlinetradesmen is here to help homeowners and trade professionals where we can.

During this period it is important to note that all non-essential construction and home improvement work has been suspended until further notice.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule, especially in the case of a household emergency – like leaky or blocked pipes, faulty boilers, roof repairs and tree removal services due to safety issues.

Therefore, it might be reassuring for you to know that many of our members are still providing emergency home services including:

• Roof repair
• Glazing and window repair
• Home electrical repair
• Plumbing and heating repair & service
• Emergency tree removal

All of our Trade members have been informed of the need to closely and consistently follow all procedures as advised by the HSE and Government.

While it is up to each member trade professional to adhere to these recommendations, we have made them aware of the need to:

• Maintain social distancing standards (keeping a space of 2 meters) with work colleagues and clients
• Wash their hands properly and more often
• Carry the required Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), including antibacterial and sanitizers
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces in and around the working area

How to have emergency work done safely during Covid-19

It is important that when you post a job to provide as much detail and clarity as possible regarding the emergency of the situation. You may also be requested to follow up with photos or more information about the job by phone to limit the need for numerous site visits.

Should a tradesman be required inside your home, we also ask that you provide a safe working environment, this includes:

• Allowing air to circulate in the working area, by keeping windows open
• Before the tradesman’s arrival, clear furniture or other household items
• Provide handwashing facilities including soap and paper towel
• Ensure a distance of more than 2 metres is maintained between the tradesman and all people in the home

If you have a person who is self-isolating or a vulnerable person in the house, be sure to let the trade professional know so they can consider any additional measures before arrival.

Once the trade professional has completed the job and left your home you should disinfect all areas and surfaces.

It is also important that if you or a family member develops Covid-19 symptoms following a tradesman's visit, you let him know so he can take the required precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.

Engage with a Trade Pro Today and Start Planning

For those households who are fortunate to not require emergency services, you may still have plenty of home improvement projects you might like to get done when this is all over.

Once lockdown restrictions ease, we expect a spike in demand for trade professionals as homeowners rush to start their delayed home improvement or maintenance projects.

If you have an emergency job right now that needs doing or a job you are planning for the future, we’ve got tradesmen ready to help.

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