Consider the potential hazards, including dust, debris, or heavy equipment, and how these could impact your home and belongings. Before the crew starts working, relocate essential furniture and items to a different room for convenient access. Having a solid plan of action in place and setting realistic expectations before a remodel is the best way to minimize stress and disarray throughout the project.
Install CCTV cameras, motion light sensors, and alarms for better monitoring. Make sure to securely lock rooms where valuable items are stored, and that only you or a trusted family member has the keys to prevent unauthorized access. Moreover, make sure someone is there to receive the deliveries of tools and materials, and have them stored in a safe place until needed.
Cover floors with construction paper, hardboard, or plastic floor protectors. For carpeted floors, use a heavy canvas dropcloth. Prioritize the floor that leads from the work area to the outdoors, but also don’t forget about other paths such as the one leading to the bathroom or the electrical panel.
Cover furniture and appliances with plastic sheets, tarps, or drop cloths to prevent dust and debris. You can also repurpose old sheets and blankets for a cheaper option. Just make sure to secure any covers with a good quality painter’s tape to prevent them from shifting or falling.
Protect door frames and edges from bumps by using cardboard, securing it over bent corners with painter’s tape.
Using air purifiers with HEPA filters is a must to help reduce airborne particles and keep the air cleaner. Regularly sweep, dust, and vacuum the affected areas to minimize dust buildup, especially at the end of each work day. Using a HEPA-filter vacuum cleaner is better to trap fine particles, as standard vacuums will only blow them back into the air.
Never hand out physical copies of your house keys. If possible, use smart locks with temporary codes that you can disable when the project is done. Likewise, discuss any specific instructions for handling or accessing any valuable items. Setting clear expectations with your contractors from the get-go can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that the process remains professional.
Once renovation is completed, take extra measures to effectively remove any remaining dust, debris, and construction materials. Check your area’s local regulations for proper and safe disposal of hazardous materials. Carefully assess all your belongings for damage or residue that may have accumulated during the project. If there’s some wiggle room in your budget, inquire about post-renovation cleaning services to help restore your home in its pre-remodel state so you can focus on enjoying your newly-renovated space.
