Since COVID-19 cases in the United Kingdom started to rise back in May, social distancing has been the new normal. Social gatherings are prohibited. People are only allowed to leave to get supplies for emergencies or if their essential work demands it. Businesses, on the other hand, have to operate at limited capacity, especially those in the construction industry. Over 29% of construction firms in the U.K. temporarily closed or paused their operations, according to a recent report by IbisWorld.
Construction is starting to pick up in cities like London. Its mayor, however, depends that companies provide a clear social distancing plan before they do any work. Furthermore, it recommends that firms follow the Construction Leadership Council’s site operating guidelines during the pandemic. This means that it’s possible to get work done to your home if you can find a reliable contractor and if your city allows it. Here are other things to consider when renovating your home during the lockdown.
Find a Temporary Place to Stay at ASAP
Renovations often involve construction professionals and carpenters going in and out of your house to get the needed work done. This can get crowded, primarily if you work from home. With the U.K. having rules against six or more people from different households gathering in a single space, you should find a temporary home to stay at during construction. Try asking relatives first. If there aren’t any available near your current place, search for open hotels or short-term rentals in the area.
Review Your Options
There are a variety of options when it comes to choosing professionals for your renovation. For small projects, like a loft conversion, go with a design and build firm. It saves you time and energy because you don’t have to find individual designers, contractors, and subcontractors. They’re a single team that takes care of everything for you. For bigger tasks like kitchen remodeling, however, you might want to hire your contractors and designers separately. This way, you can save cash by finding ones that offer the best prices.
Set Communication Guidelines
You need to be in regular contact with your contractor, designer, and project manager to make sure your renovation is on-schedule and on-budget. Keep consultations exclusive to video calls. And if you do need to interact with them personally, make sure you and everyone else are wearing personal protective gear like masks and face shields.
Clean Areas of Contact
If you’re still living in the same home you’re renovating, make sure you have a solid cleaning plan as well. Immediately after workers leave your home for the day, grab a bucket full of soapy water and a clean towel and wipe down and rinse the surfaces they touched. Make sure to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after your cleaning session.
Getting renovations done during a lockdown can be difficult but not entirely impossible. Check with your local government if residential works are allowed. Consider these suggestions before, during, and after getting work done. This way, you can get the home of your dreams while staying compliant with social distancing regulations.
