The owner of oven valeting business Ovenu Chester believes confusion surrounding lockdown rules could be having an impact on those domestic tradespeople permitted to work.
Andy Heaton says he has been contacted by several clients looking to rebook appointments, having assumed he was 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.
Andy said: “I still have a busy order book, but clients have been in touch asking if I’m 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, Andy temporarily mothballed the business – reopening in May after the government published new guidance on domestic working.
He 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 Chester 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.
Andy, who has run the business since 2005, added: “My absolute priority is to keep both myself and my clients safe. Many people do want to have their ovens cleaned but aren’t aware we are still working.
“It’s very much a job most people detest at the best of times, so being able to have a professional come in and do it in a Covid-secure manner, is one less stress to deal with.”
Rik Hellewell, the founder and managing director of Ovenu, added: “Andy has clear Covid-safe working procedures in place, which I hope provides great reassurance to his clients.”
The whole valeting process takes approximately three hours and leaves the oven in immaculate condition.
Ovenu is accredited by the Approved Franchise Association and all cleaning products used are environmentally friendly, bio-degradable and conform to the latest government REACH regulations. Ovenu’s Carbon Remover is also approved by the Vitreous Enamel Association.
For a free quote call Ovenu Chester on 01244 879099, email Andy at ovenuchester@gmail.com or visit https://www.ovenu.co.uk/oven_cleaning/chester/
