- Vet and Secure Your Contractors
Do your due diligence
Research contractors online, checking reviews and complaints on platforms like Google or social media.
Verify licenses via your state or region’s contractor licensing board.
Request references and ask key questions about their professionalism and behavior in your home.
Meet before hiring—trust your instincts, and bring someone along if needed.
Set clear boundaries
Define work hours in writing.
Avoid giving out house keys—use smart locks and assign temporary codes you can revoke later.
- Safeguard Your Home Against Theft and Intrusion
Maintain physical security
Ask contractors to keep doors and windows closed when not in use—unsecured openings invite opportunity.
Use surveillance and deterrents
Install home security cameras for remote monitoring. Options like AlfredCamera or other systems with motion alerts and sirens are especially effective.
Add motion-activated outdoor lighting—visible security measures deter intruders.
Display visible signage like “CCTV in Operation” to reinforce that the property is monitored.
Secure valuables
Store jewelry, cash, electronics, and important documents in locked rooms or safes.
Keep valuables out of sight—move them upstairs or into cabinets and closets.
Conduct an inventory (photos + descriptions) of high-value items for peace of mind and insurance purposes.
- Structural and Environmental Safety
Create safe zones
Build temporary walls or barriers to contain dust and separate construction areas from living spaces.
Seal off vents, doorways, and cover floors and furniture with protective materials (tarp, cardboard, plastic sheets).
Improve air quality and control hazards
Use air purifiers, keep windows open, and ensure proper ventilation, especially when dealing with dust or fumes.
Run HEPA-filter vacuums and air scrubbers to reduce airborne particles.
Fire and health safety essentials
Ensure smoke detectors, fire alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors are functional.
Keep fire extinguishers and first-aid kits handy and accessible.
Be cautious with electrical tools; use GFCI outlets in high-moisture areas.
Avoid accidents and tool misuse
Regularly inspect ladders, scaffolding, and tools for stability and safety.
Keep tools tidy and out of children’s reach; ensure debris-free walking surfaces.
Take breaks when feeling fatigued to remain focused.
- Insurance and Legal Considerations
Notify your home insurer
If you’re making major changes like removing load-bearing walls, inform your insurer to remain covered. Otherwise, you risk voiding your policy.
Review coverage
Check that your homeowners insurance covers renovation-related incidents like theft or accidental damage.
Ensure contractors are bonded and insured—typically their coverage doesn’t extend to your possessions.
- Real-World Advice from Users
On Reddit, users share hands-on tips that complement official advice:
“Build boxes or storage that can be locked… that gives peace of mind”
“Put cameras at doors, furnace, kitchen… then check remotely once a week.”
“Take before, during, and after pictures of pipes, beams, and installations for future reference.”
“Use 6-mil poly walls hung with painter’s tape to seal off remodel areas—it works wonders keeping dust away.”