THE local authority in Stirling continues to carry out annual gas safety inspections during the coronavirus lockdown.

Stirling Council says it has a legal landlord duty to carry out the checks, adding they are even more important during the ongoing lockdown as residents spend most of their time at home.

Tenants will be contacted to arrange a convenient time when an gas safety check is due, with Gas Safe registered engineers making sure all appliances in council homes are in good working order.

Precautions will be taken, according to the local authority.

For instance, people self-isolating will be asked to re-arrange once their isolation period has ended.

Those living in the home will be asked to vacate the room where the tradesperson is working.

They will be asked to provide access to washing facilities for the engineer.

The gas servicing team is happy to provide guidance and advice to people who are shielding through the safety checks.

Social distancing rules will be followed, explained Stirling Council.

Councillor Evelyn Tweed, housing portfolio holder, said: “It is important that our engineers still have access to people’s homes to carry out these essential checks, even more so during the lockdown period when so many of us spend so much time within our homes.

“We understand these are challenging times for everyone, but the council requires to carry out this work to keep tenants safe in their homes.

“The council has a legal duty to carry out these checks and we would request everyone’s assistance and co-operation during this difficult period so we can continue this work.”

For advice and further information regarding the process, call 01786 237 669.