B&Q stores are open for business during the third coronavirus lockdown in England.
This is because B&Q has been classed as an “essential” retailer due to it selling home repair items.
Shoppers can also still order items online for home delivery and click and collect.
Delivery charges apply – we explain more below – but click and collect is free.
Is B&Q open?
The government rules for lockdown divide shops into essential and non-essential, with essential shops allowed to continue operating and non-essential ones forced to close.
B&Q and all DIY stores are considered essential – so they can stay open, along with supermarkets and banks.
Stores are open from 7am until 8pm from Monday to Saturday and from 10am to 4pm on Sundays, but check ahead in case there are any local changes.
You can use B&Q’s store finder tool to find the opening times at yourr nearby stores.
You should only go to B&Q if it’s for essentials, for example a part to fix your plumbing or if it’s related to moving home – you can still browse and shop for non-essentials online.
What are the rules for shopping at B&Q stores?
When you go to a B&Q store, you can expect some safety measures and rules to keep everyone safe as coronavirus cases rise.
You’ll have to follow social distancing measures in store and if you’re queuing to get in outside, keep two metres apart and make sure you wear a mask, unless exempt.
There will be markers and signage explaining what you need to do.
B&Q is advising people to shop at quieter times of the day, which is earlier in the morning and later in the afternoon, when they can expect less queuing.
You should have a shopping list ready so that staff can guide you to the right section rather than browsing.
At the checkout, paying with contactless is preferred over cash where possible.