Certass has published to the Certass TA forum and its member brand new guidance for installers working in residential fenestration. It is as follows:

Dear Certass member,

Today we received further clarification on tradespeople working in homes from the Chair of the Competent Persons Forum. A copy of this letter has been sent to all Competent Persons Schemes in response to the question of whether tradespeople can work in people’s homes.

Replacing windows and doors in occupied homes should not be undertaken at this time as this is discretionary rather than essential unless required to repair damage to ensure the building remains safe or warm.

We have been asked to ensure that our members are aware that non‐essential replacement/installation works should not be undertaken until the lockdown is complete or the government has issued updated guidance.

Where homes or premises are unoccupied or separate to the main building, then the guidance on construction sites which allows work to continue would apply, if social distancing can be maintained.

Separation from the house would require a thermal divide – this means that work for many conservatories or roofline could be carried out. We have already provided via the Certass Trade Association a method statement for emergency works. The good news from Government that the peak is behind us and that the Prime Minister will lay out a plan for the relaxation of lockdown next week. We are currently working on guides for post lockdown circumstances where social distancing is still enacted, these will be published alongside Government announcements.

We appreciate how difficult this is for all of our industry, rest assured we are working hard to represent you all, provide practical guidance and most of all ensure you and the general public are safe.

We know Certass members are the best in the industry, stay safe and let’s show everyone else how good our industry can be.

Reference links:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/social-distancing-in-the-workplace-during-coronavirus-covid-19-sector-guidance#tradespeople-and-working-in-peoples-homes

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/further-businesses-and-premises-to-close/further-businesses-and-premises-to-close-guidance#work-carried-out-in-peoples-homes

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