Friday 23rd October 2020
From DIO Accommodation Team.
In response to the increase in Covid-19 transmission across Wales, a ‘firebreak’ will be introduced across the country from 23 October to 9 November. This will impact on improvement works, repairs and maintenance services and move-in/outs throughout Wales, including Substitute Accommodation.
We understand that this is a worrying time for Service personnel and their families. Please be assured that the safety of occupants and staff remains a priority as the pandemic continues.
Service Delivery
In accordance with current Covid-19 safe working arrangements and Welsh Government guidance, the following measures will be applied from 23 October:
- Improvement Works – we will continue to undertake improvement works on void properties. In occupied properties, external improvement projects will continue. However, to meet the intent of the Welsh Government guidance, internal improvement works in occupied properties will be deferred until the lifting of the ‘firebreak’ unless the Head of Establishment considers such a deferral would impact on operational effectiveness, and occupants are not self-isolating.
- Move-In/Outs – we shall reintroduce ‘virtual’ pre-move-out and move-in/out inspections to minimise contact and reduce the operational impact of delayed moves or follow on assignments.
- Safety Checks – provided occupants are not self-isolating, planned statutory and mandatory checks will continue as these are safety critical (Amey will phone ahead to confirm with occupants before attending the property).
- Response Maintenance – response maintenance arrangements will be adjusted so that Emergency, Critical and Urgent tasks only will be attended. Routine response maintenance appointments will be deferred until after the end of the ‘firebreak’.
- Grounds Maintenance – these tasks will continue as required in accordance with social distancing guidelines.
Further information can be found on Amey’s webpages.
Moving In and Out of SFA
The Welsh Government has issued guidance on moving house, and moves are being permitted; this situation will continue to be monitored. If Service personnel are due to move into or out of SFA in Wales during the ‘firebreak’ they should contact Amey for up-to-date guidance.
Substitute Accommodation
The ‘firebreak’ may restrict the ability of Mears, our industry partner, to provide a full Substitute Accommodation service. For example, although Welsh Government guidance indicates that house moves can still take place, the closure of letting agents and hotels may impact on the ability to source properties during this period. The latest up to date guidance will be placed on the GOV.UK site as soon as possible. If Service personnel are due to move during this time, or require any information regarding Substitute Accommodation, including repairs and maintenance, please refer to this site.
See also: Housing and Accommodation
