Are you still holding off on a house project because of the constant coronavirus fluctuations? Not sure how to work with tradies during this time, or are nervous to have a stranger at the house during a community outbreak?
It is safe for you to engage a tradesperson for your job or project as all trades are taking necessary precautions and implementing best practices to ensure their safety and yours. We’ve created a list of tips below to help you navigate the process of working with tradies during Covid-19 to ensure the safety of your household and the tradespeople.
Facetime, video calls and phone calls
To help explain the scope of the project, have a video call with the tradesperson. This is an easy way to walk through the project, explain what you want to achieve and provide them with a view of the area without the need for a face-to-face visit. If you are unable to have a video call or Facetime, sending the tradesperson the measurements of the space along with a collection of images and videos before the phone conversation will assist them greatly.
You can also take this time to ask the tradesperson what precautions and health measures they are taking on a job site to ensure your safety and their safety. Be prepared for them to also ask you questions about your household safety practices and if anyone is self-isolating or within a high-risk category.
Social distancing and hygiene practices apply at home
It is important for you to practice safe hygiene and observe social distancing in your home. Allow for one person per every four-square metres and practice the 1.5 metre distance when talking with tradespeople. Make sure each person can and does wash their hands.
Remember, if you are sick, self-isolating, or in quarantine, advise the tradespeople before their arrival and reschedule the job if necessary.
Keeping up to date with the current health regulations and restrictions is important for both you and the tradespeople working at your home. You will find the latest information on your State Government’s health website.
Preparing the area for work
Whether the job is inside or outside, it is good practice to ensure all surfaces, handles, taps, and objects are cleaned before tradespeople arrive. Remember to include any high traffic areas, like walkways, that will be used during the job into your cleaning schedule.
Dealing with multiple tradespeople
If you have a big project or job that requires the work of different trades, it is a good idea to reduce the number of tradespeople working on the project at any given time for their safety and yours. You can achieve this by collaborating with the trades to schedule different days and/or times for them to work on the job site. Working with the trades will also ensure your project is completed efficiently and safely for all.
The end of the job
Once the project or job is completed, we recommend using electronic payment methods such as PayPal or direct deposit, instead of handling cash.
It is also good practice if your tradesperson hasn’t already done so, to repeat your cleaning schedule from earlier to ensure all surfaces, handles, taps, objects, and high traffic areas are clean.
Placing a priority on both your safety and the safety of the tradespeople will ensure your project is completed efficiently whilst also following current health regulations and restrictions. And remember if you have any concerns about tradies working at your home, speak with them about their best hygiene practices.
Our tips for working with tradespeople follow the current health regulations and restrictions. We will endeavour to keep this article updated in line with any changes, however, if you are unsure, please check with your local authority on any developments within your area.
