Ongoing repairs and rebuilding of insured properties will be carried out according to new coronavirus safety guidelines set by the housing industry, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) says.

The guidance from the Housing Industry Association (HIA) includes applying social distancing measures at worksites, and is aimed at minimising the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

ICA says the HIA’s set of nine guidelines means the industry can press on with recovery works in communities affected by the recent bushfire catastrophe and other natural disasters last summer.

General insurance has been classified an “essential service” while government measures are in place to curb public activity in a bid to slow the spread of the virus.

“These guidelines are supported by the insurance industry, and most insurers are making them a requirement of any insurance work,” ICA Head of Communications Campbell Fuller said. “They require good communication with the property owner and all workers, along with constant awareness and vigilance.

“This will provide greater peace of mind to householders and other property owners who need to have builders in or around their premises during the pandemic.

“Observing these guidelines will ensure insurers and their contractors can continue to help the community where buildings are damaged and repairs are required.”

Here are the nine guidelines:

• Applying social distancing measures on worksites

• Meeting government self-isolation rules on and off worksites

• Keeping the property owner informed of all COVID-19 prevention measures including site management plans

• Isolating construction areas from non-building areas

• Managing project schedules to reduce the number of trades on site at the same time

• Ensuring workers have access to appropriate personal protection equipment

• Ensuring workers have access to appropriate hygiene and safety facilities

• Encouraging contactless payments and deliveries, and travelling off peak

• Organising site inductions and updates on the latest government requirements