Dave Simmonds, who runs oven valeting business Ovenu Rugby, is again accepting customer bookings after introducing a range of precautions to ensure a safe and responsible return to work.
He took the decision after receiving several enquiries from householders concerning oven cleaning over the past few weeks – and already has eight days’ worth of bookings confirmed.
The move follows an Ovenu poll that found almost half the public would invite tradespeople into their homes if measures were in place to reduce any possible spread of coronavirus.
He is accepting bookings at his discretion, with the strict stipulation that both parties observe the two-metre social distancing rule, along with guidelines on hygiene and cleanliness. PPE may also be worn.
In addition, with payment only accepted electronically, it is possible to complete the whole process with minimal or zero customer contact.
Dave, a former contract manager for a company involved in the construction industry, took over the franchise in 2010 and has worked hard to build up his business.
He said: “I, along with many other tradespeople across the region, temporarily mothballed my business when lockdown was imposed – a very difficult thing to do when it is your livelihood.
“Since then, I’ve been preparing to re-open at the appropriate time with the correct measures in place. My priority is to keep myself and my customers safe.
“Given how much time people have spent cooking and baking during this lockdown period, I would imagine there is quite a bit of work for me to do!”
During the downtime, he has busied himself by updating his company’s web page to improve the client booking experience.
Rik Hellewell, founder and managing director of the Ovenu franchise, said: “Dave has taken a very responsible approach to reopening his business and has clear guidelines in place.
“I hope this provides reassurance to his customers and allows him to preserve the future of his business and make a contribution to the local economy.”
The poll, involving a sample of 2,110 people, was conducted by independent market research group DEG for Ovenu at the beginning of this month. It found that 46 per cent of respondents would consider allowing tradespeople into their home to carry out work.
As well as Rugby, Dave also covers Leamington, Warwick, Coventry, Nuneaton, Bedworth, Kenilworth, Stratford, Shipston, Southam, Gaydon and surrounding villages.
The Ovenu valeting process involves dismantling key components of an oven such as the door, interior panels, fan, and shelves and placing them into a design registered tank, using non-caustic cleaning products. The whole process leaves the oven in immaculate condition.
For a free quote, call 01788 432313, email rugby@ovenu.co.uk or visit www.ovenu.co.uk/oven_cleaning/rugby/
