Member Article

Warrington business says confusion over lockdown rules may affect tradespeople

The owners of oven valeting business Ovenu Warrington believe confusion surrounding lockdown rules could be having an impact on those domestic tradespeople permitted to work.

Husband and wife team Paul and Andrea Clark say they have been contacted by several clients looking to rebook appointments, having assumed they were no longer able to visit homes due to the current restrictions.

However, oven cleaning is one of several trades and services listed by the government able to operate if social distancing and hygiene measures are followed.

Paul said: “We still have a busy order book, but clients have been in touch asking if we’re still open for business.

“There have been so many changes to the rules and regulations over the past year that it has created real confusion, and I’m concerned other local tradespeople may suffer as a result.

“Cleaning services are permitted to work inside people’s homes and I’m sure there are quite a few ovens in need of a thorough clean after Christmas – coupled with the fact that people are spending more time cooking and baking.”

During last spring’s initial lockdown, the Penketh couple temporarily mothballed the business – reopening in May after the government published new guidance on domestic working. Andrea said that the business has been busy ever since but that the latest lockdown seems to have created genuine confusion over the rules surrounding working in people’s homes.

Ovenu Warrington continues to accept bookings at its discretion, with the strict stipulation that both parties observe the two-metre social distancing rule, along with guidelines on hygiene and cleanliness.

Andrea added: “Our absolute priority is keeping ourselves and our clients safe. Many people do want to have their ovens cleaned but aren’t aware we are still working.”

Rik Hellewell, the founder and managing director of the Ovenu franchise, added: “Paul and Andrea have clear Covid-safe working procedures in place, which I hope brings great reassurance to their clients.”

As well as Warrington, the business also covers Great Sankey, Culcheth, Burtonwood, Lymm, Stretton, Glazebury, Newton-le-Willows, Winwick, Birchwood, Croft, Chapelford Village, Woolston, Appleton, Grappenhall, Thelwall, Daresbury and all surrounding areas.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by News Gathering .