What's it like to renovate in a COVID 19 environment?
Worried about how COVID 19 could affect your renovation?
We can totally understand, it's been a very unnerving and uncertain time for everyone in the world. We've all had to find new ways to stay safe and maintain some level of productivity across all sectors.
Don't panic, as your renovation specialists, we're here to address your concerns and reassure you at this time. In our blog, we'll cover off the main questions you no doubt have. With the new traffic light system launched, there should be much less chance of lockdowns. We are still required to adhere to ministry guidelines to ensure a safe site for both our team and of course our clients.
These guidelines include;
Q: What procedures are followed to ensure your renovation site is safe?
A: We use these options to ensure safety onsite for all present.
- Social distancing
- Work bubbles
- Saliva testing - faster test option, with faster results no need to queue at testing stations
- Rapid antigen tests for initial uncertainties
- Use of contact tracing apps
- Manual sign in
- Designated zones for contactless deliveries
- Mask-wearing
- Daily wiping down of all communal surfaces
- Frequent handwashing/use of sanitising gel
- Site-based QR codes for scanning.
https://www.building.govt.nz/covid-19/ also has some great information around site requirements during lockdowns.
Q: Are there any issues with the supply of materials and trades?
A: Building always relies heavily on a highly organised site/project manager to ensure that materials are ordered well in advance. See which builder is best for my renovation article. Trades also need to be communicated with early and clearly to ensure that they arrive when needed. We have very strong relationships with our trades and suppliers, so have been pretty fortunate so far. On rare occasions, a secondary product may need to be sourced as an alternative, to keep the project moving. This is only with the full approval of clients before moving forward.
There needs to be a safe place for contactless deliveries to occur. Now more than ever it is critical to engage with an experienced, qualified, and licensed building practitioner for your renovation.
Q: Will all builders follow these guidelines?
A: Our advice would be to take a good look at your builder's quality of reviews and professionalism. Ask them the above questions and ensure that they plan to implement the necessary safety measures outlined by the government. Not every builder or building company is created equal so it's best not to assume.
Do you have more questions? We'd love to hear from you. So give us a bell on 09 8468110 or drop us a line via our contact us page