I was intrigued to read an article in the Independent about the virtual plumbers and mechanics available during lockdown. It is quite incredible that so many businesses are continuing to operate even in these difficult circumstances. They are using their initiative and finding ways to work safely.  It is quite commendable. But it does rely on people being able to follow instructions. As I am a keyworker I am still at work. I know my wife for one would never cope with this.  The plumbing would no doubt be in a worst state afterwards.  

Is a Virtual Plumber for you?

Virtual plumbing will not be for everyone. Fortunately, there are still plumbers coming out to your house. Providing you both follow the social distancing guidelines then there is no reason you should not have a plumber come out in an emergency. Pulse Plumbers in South London understand how serious some problems are, gas leaks for example require someone out rapidly. I do not think it would be wise for a virtual plumber to guide you through something so significant. 

It is scary how the fear of the virus might be putting people off calling out plumbers.  But they are allowed to continue to come out to your house as you can see from this article in the Telegraph. So, you do not have to opt for a virtual plumber if you do not have the confidence. Personally, I am quite handy and would probably keep up okay. My wife on the other hand would rather a plumber come out and she would wait outside of the room they were working on. If you take the right precautions plumbers can carry on working.  

Lockdown

I think the lockdown has been hard for tradesmen. Therefore, if you need work done urgently that can impact your safety if left, make that call. Gas leaks can end up being more dangerous than the virus itself. Carbon monoxide poisoning can kill, and gas is highly flammable so there is a risk of explosion. I would hate that everyone is so worried about the virus that they take big risks with their plumbing. Avoiding having gas leaks investigated or appliances serviced might be a mistake. 

If you are following the precautions and pick out an established plumbing firm, you should be able to have work that is important completed. Some firms have robust coronavirus procedures in place which gives you lots of reassurance, just ring them and ask. I know if our old boiler started playing up again, my wife would not be impressed if I was discussing it virtually with a plumber. She would not sleep easy, so for the sake of martial harmony I will be continuing with call outs if we have an emergency. I guess we all have our own thoughts and priorities when it comes to navigating life in lockdown. I work in the NHS and I would not call out a plumber now for anything cosmetic but maintenance to keep you safe at home is a must! Although there are some small plumbing jobs you can do yourself.

What are your thoughts? Have you tried any virtual services since lockdown? How have they worked out for you?