How we are adapting the Online Auctions to avoid COVID-19

The Government of Ontario required the closure of Non-essential services Workplaces. In response to that announcement we would like to stress "Workplace". Estate Sales Niagara does not have a storefront open to the public. Services such as online shopping have not been affected by this list of closures. 

 "Note that teleworking and online commerce are permitted at all times for all businesses"
https://www.ontario.ca/page/list-essential-workplaces 

 The following additional public health measures will take effect January 13, 2021 at 12:01 a.m.: 

• Up to 5 people may gather outdoors, as long as you can keep 2 metres physical distance from each other. You should also wear a mask or face covering. 
• All non-essential retail stores, including hardware stores, alcohol retailers, and those offering curbside pickup or delivery, must open no earlier than 7 a.m. and close no later than 8 p.m. 
•  Purchasing or picking up goods through an alternative method of sale, such as curbside pickup, from a business or place that is permitted to provide curbside pickup under the Stage 1 Order. 

Most retailers considered non-essential may be open for curbside pickup, with select retailers able to operate by appointment. As of January 14, 2021, curbside pick-up must occur between the hours of 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. for retailers who are deemed “non-essential” and are conducting curbside sales. This restriction will continue for at least 28 days. 

Police are not going to be randomly pulling drivers over to check on their reasons for being out. That said, getting pulled over for a traffic infraction could lead to chargeable offences under the Act.  DON'T SPEED!!  Wear your SEATBELT!! DON'T CARPOOL with more than 5 people!! Do not travel outside your region or the province unless absolutely necessary. 

• Under the provincial emergency, the following enhanced enforcement authorities will be in place:
  • All provincial offences officers, including police officers, will have the authority to disperse crowds indoors as well as outdoors. For example, when a group of more than five people who are not from the same household are gathering outdoors, they can be required to leave and the premise may be closed.
  • Similar to the provision under ROA, individuals have a duty to identify when a police officer has reasonable and probably grounds that an offence under EMCPA has been committed.
• Additionally, enforcement personnel will have the authority to issue tickets to individuals, employees and corporations in retail settings and businesses if found not complying with an order (e.g. staff member or customer not wearing a face covering.)

Online shopping businesses such as Indigo, Amazon, eBay, Etsy and Kijiji are still operating. We will not be offering shipping or delivery, however Pick up points will not be used as a gathering of a social crowd. Pickup times will be scheduled - We will clarify your pickup slot on your RECEIPT. Small items will be available for curbside pickup.  Large items must be removed by yourself and or someone on your behalf. Staff is not available to assist with furniture or appliance removal from the homes.

If you choose to continue bidding and buying, please ensure you are taking precautions to limit exposure. Practicing good hygiene, keeping a safe distance from others, and properly cleaning any items you come in contact with are all good measures to follow.