Non-essential Domestic Jobs Banned in Scotland

“Non-essential” domestic construction work is banned under the level 4 lockdown restrictions coming into force across much of Scotland tomorrow (Friday 20 November).

Scottish Government guidance for the restrictions that come into force at 6pm across 11 council areas have been updated to state that only “essential domestic jobs” are permitted.

The guidance says: “Tradespeople should only go into a house in a level 4 area to carry out or deliver essential work or services.”

Stated examples of essential services include carrying out electricity, gas or water checks, repairs, maintenance and installation, as well as other repairs and maintenance for things “that would otherwise threaten the household’s health and safety”.

All tradespeople are required to stay two metres away from the people living in homes, wear a face covering and to “follow good hand and respiratory hygiene”.

National Federation of Builders chief executive Richard Beresford said: "Scotland’s ban on non-essential domestic work will be of major concern to NFB members who work north of the border as well as all those companies who make up the Scottish construction industry. We therefore ask the Scottish Government to ensure it has thoroughly engaged with industry in the making of this decision because tailored and detailed site operating procedures and safe working guidelines, including domestic works, have been keeping workers and clients safe over the last nine months. What has changed?"

Construction on sites is allowed to continue throughout the lockdown period, which is set to last for three weeks.

The new level 4 rules will apply to East Ayrshire, East Dunbartonshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow, North Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, Stirling, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian.

Announcing the restrictions on Monday, first minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “Our objective in taking this action now is to protect the NHS, open the possibility of seeing some loved ones at Christmas and complete the journey to next spring with as few restrictions as possible and with the minimum impact on life and health.”