Surveyors are now allowed to work in people’s homes, says the department for business, every and industrial strategy.
Guidance for workers and employers issued by the government specifically lists surveyors alongside other home workers, such as meter readers and plumbers, as being able to conduct work provided a Covid-19 risk assessment is carried out in consultation with unions or workers.
However, the guidance stresses the point that in-person appointments should be avoided where possible and that two meters of social distancing still needs to be followed.
The risk assessment consists of implementing hygiene procedures, limiting contact time, using physical screens or barriers to keep people apart and identifying people who are more vulnerable to Covid-19.
The guidance can be downloaded from the official government website.
CBI director-general Carolyn Fairbairn says: “The UK faces months of change and challenge. These guidelines will need to continue to evolve based on insight from the ground.
“And employers, employee representatives and relevant enforcement agencies must work together, supporting these plans to build public trust and get our economy back on its feet.”
Federation of Small Businesses director of external affairs and advocacy Craig Beaumont adds: “Today’s guidance is practical, workable and proportionate for small businesses.
“It will be a long journey but this guidance will provide the basis for small employers to have the positive conversations needed with their staff. This is the first step to getting the economy back on its feet.”
And Arnold & Baldwin Chartered Surveyors managing director Joe Arnold says: “This is excellent news for the property market as it means that we are effectively back in business. It does state however, digital inspections are to be undertaken where possible and physical inspections should be avoided.”
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has posted a message on its website saying that it will publish guidance to support those who work on physical inspections for valuations and home surveys “over the coming days”.
