How to Prepare Your Home Before Contractors Arrive

You’ve hired a contractor, scheduled the work, and you’re ready to start your home improvement project. But wait—have you prepared your home for the contractors’ arrival? Proper preparation can make a significant difference in how smoothly your project runs, how quickly it gets completed, and how satisfied you’ll be with the final results.

Taking time to prepare your home before contractors arrive shows professionalism, helps prevent miscommunication, and can even save you money by avoiding delays. Whether you’re planning a small bathroom update or a major renovation, this comprehensive guide will help you get your home contractor-ready.

Table of Contents

Why Home Preparation Matters

Before diving into the preparation checklist, it’s important to understand why this step is so crucial:

Efficiency and Time Savings: Contractors can start work immediately without wasting billable hours moving furniture or searching for electrical panels. When they can begin productive work on day one, your project stays on schedule and within budget.

Protection of Your Property: Proper preparation minimizes the risk of damage to your belongings, furniture, and other areas of your home. A well-prepared space gives contractors room to work safely without accidentally bumping into valuables or tracking dust through unprotected areas.

Clear Communication: Preparation forces you to think through details you might otherwise overlook, leading to better communication with your contractor about expectations, access, and project scope.

Safety: A clutter-free workspace reduces the risk of accidents for both contractors and your family. Construction sites have inherent hazards, and minimizing obstacles helps everyone stay safe.

Cost Control: Delays caused by poor preparation can lead to additional labor charges. When contractors encounter unexpected obstacles or can’t access work areas, you may end up paying for time that doesn’t advance your project.

2-3 Weeks Before: Initial Preparation

1. Finalize Project Details

Review the Contract: Go through your contract one more time to ensure you understand the scope of work, timeline, payment schedule, and change order procedures. Make sure you’re clear on what’s included and what’s not.

Confirm the Schedule: Reach out to your contractor to confirm:

Start date and expected end date
Daily work hours (when will they arrive and leave?)
Which days they’ll be working
Expected crew size
Any days they won’t be available

Discuss Access: Have a conversation about how contractors will access your home:

Will you provide a key or use a lockbox?
What entrance should they use?
Where can they park?
Are there any access restrictions (gated community, building security, etc.)?

2. Notify Relevant Parties

Homeowners Association (HOA): If you live in an HOA community, notify them about the upcoming work. You may need to:

Submit renovation approval forms
Provide contractor insurance information
Get parking permits for contractor vehicles
Follow specific hours of operation for construction noise

Neighbors: Give your neighbors a heads-up about the project, especially if it involves:

Loud noise (demolition, drilling, sawing)
Large equipment or dumpsters on the street
Potential parking disruptions
Extended timelines

A simple conversation or note can go a long way toward maintaining good relationships. Consider providing your contact information in case any issues arise.

Landlord (if applicable): If you’re renting, ensure you have written permission for all work being done and that you’ve followed proper notification procedures.

Insurance Company: Notify your homeowners insurance company about major renovations. Some policies require notification, and you may need additional coverage during construction.

3. Secure Permits

While contractors typically handle permits, verify that:

All necessary permits have been applied for and approved
Permits will be posted visibly as required by local code
Inspection schedule is understood
You know who is responsible for scheduling inspections

4. Make Temporary Living Arrangements (if needed)

For major renovations, especially kitchen or bathroom remodels, consider:

Kitchen Work: Set up a temporary kitchen in another room with a microwave, cooler, and basic supplies. Stock up on paper plates and disposable utensils.
Bathroom Work: Identify which bathroom will remain available during construction, or make arrangements to use facilities elsewhere.
Extended Projects: For whole-home renovations, you might need to temporarily relocate to a hotel, rental property, or stay with family.

1 Week Before: Detailed Preparation

5. Clear the Work Area

Remove Furniture: Clear all furniture from the immediate work area and adjacent spaces that might be affected:

Move furniture to another room or the center of the room (if walls are being worked on)
Remove decorative items, lamps, and accessories
Take down curtains and blinds if they’re near the work area
Remove items from shelves and cabinets in the work zone

Clear Storage Areas: If contractors need access to attics, basements, or crawl spaces:

Create a clear path to access points
Remove stored items that might be in the way
Ensure adequate lighting in these areas

Empty Cabinets and Closets: For kitchen or bathroom remodels:

Remove all items from cabinets being replaced or moved
Clear out closets if walls are being removed or worked on
Pack items securely in labeled boxes

6. Protect Adjacent Areas

Cover Flooring: Even if contractors provide protection, consider adding your own:

Use heavy-duty plastic sheeting or drop cloths
Tape down protective materials to prevent tripping hazards
Pay special attention to hallways and paths to the work area
Protect hardwood floors, tile, and carpeting from scratches and dust

Create Barriers: Use plastic sheeting to seal off:

Doorways leading to non-construction areas
Vents that might spread dust throughout your home
Open shelving or built-ins near the work zone
Valuable items that can’t be moved

Protect Walls: If contractors will be moving large items or equipment through your home, consider:

Corner guards for hallway corners
Temporary padding on walls
Protecting door frames and trim

7. Prepare Utilities and Systems

Locate and Mark Key Systems:

Main water shutoff valve
Electrical panel/circuit breaker box
Gas shutoff valve (if applicable)
HVAC system controls
Sump pump (if applicable)

Create a simple diagram or take photos showing locations, and provide this to your contractor. Mark these locations with visible labels or tape.

Test Systems: Ensure everything is working properly before work begins:

Turn on all lights in the work area to identify any electrical issues
Test plumbing fixtures for leaks or problems
Check HVAC vents and returns
Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors

Adjust HVAC Settings: If work will affect your heating or cooling:

Discuss with your contractor whether systems should be on or off
Consider changing filters more frequently during construction
Cover vents in the work area to prevent dust circulation

8. Secure Valuables and Important Items

Protect Valuables:

Move jewelry, cash, important documents to a secure location
Remove artwork, antiques, and collectibles from the work area and adjacent rooms
Consider using a safe or safety deposit box for high-value items
Take photos of valuable items as documentation

Secure Personal Information:

Lock filing cabinets containing sensitive documents
Remove or lock away mail, tax documents, and financial records
Protect your computer and digital devices
Store medications in a secure location

9. Address Pets and Children

Pet Arrangements:

Decide whether pets should be removed from the home during work hours
If pets stay home, designate a secure room away from the construction zone
Post clear signage about pets (“Please keep door closed – cat inside”)
Inform contractors about any pets that will be present
Ensure pets have ID tags in case they escape during contractor arrivals/departures
Consider boarding services for anxious pets or during particularly noisy work

Child Safety:

Discuss the construction schedule to plan childcare accordingly
Keep children away from the work area at all times
Lock up tools and materials if stored in accessible areas
Explain to older children about construction hazards
Remove or secure climbing hazards that might attract curious children

2-3 Days Before: Final Preparations

10. Deep Clean the Work Area

While it might seem counterintuitive to clean before construction begins:

Vacuum and dust thoroughly
Clean surfaces where contractors will set up work areas
A clean starting point makes it easier to assess cleanup quality at project end
Take “before” photos for your records

11. Prepare an Information Packet

Create a simple information sheet for contractors including:

Emergency Contacts: Your phone numbers, alternative contact person
System Locations: Where to find water shutoff, breaker panel, etc.
WiFi Information: If contractors need internet access for digital tools
Bathroom Facilities: Which bathroom they may use, where supplies are located
Trash/Debris: Where to place construction debris, dumpster location
Parking: Where crew can park, any restrictions
Alarm Codes: Security system information (if applicable)
Special Instructions: Any specific requirements or concerns

12. Set Up Contractor Amenities

Work Station: Designate an area where contractors can:

Store tools and equipment overnight
Take breaks
Charge batteries and devices
Review plans

Facilities Access:

Stock a bathroom with basic supplies, paper towels, and soap
Provide access to water (indoor faucet or outdoor hose)
Consider providing a small refrigerator space if the project is long-term
Set up a coffee maker or provide access to beverages (optional but appreciated)

Parking: Ensure adequate parking by:

Moving your vehicles if necessary
Reserving street parking spaces
Getting permits for drivster placement
Notifying neighbors about temporary parking needs

13. Protect Your Belongings

Technology and Electronics:

Unplug sensitive electronics in or near the work area
Cover electronics with plastic to protect from dust
Back up important computer data
Remove televisions, sound systems, and gaming consoles from the work zone

Furniture You Can’t Move:

Cover with heavy-duty plastic sheeting
Use furniture pads for protection
Move items to the center of the room and group together for easier covering

Window Treatments:

Remove or tie back curtains and drapes
Consider taking down blinds if they’re near work areas
Protect window sills with painter’s tape and plastic

The Day Before: Final Checks

14. Walk Through the Space

Do a final walk-through of the work area:

Ensure all furniture and belongings are moved
Check that pathways are clear
Verify that protective coverings are in place
Confirm utilities are accessible
Test that any keys or access codes work

15. Confirm with Your Contractor

Make a final phone call or send a text to:

Confirm the start time for tomorrow
Verify the crew size
Ensure they have your information packet details
Answer any last-minute questions
Confirm payment arrangements for day one (if a deposit is due)

16. Prepare Your Family

Brief Your Household:

Review the construction schedule with family members
Discuss which areas are off-limits
Explain daily routine changes
Set expectations about noise, dust, and disruptions
Establish communication protocols (who talks to contractors about changes?)

Set Boundaries: Make sure everyone understands:

Don’t enter the construction zone
Don’t touch tools or materials
Direct all questions to the designated household contact person
Respect contractors’ work time and space

First Day: Setting the Tone

17. Be Present for the Initial Walkthrough

Be Available: Try to be home when contractors arrive on day one:

Greet the crew and introduce yourself
Show them the work area
Point out the information you’ve prepared
Review access to facilities and utilities
Discuss daily arrival/departure procedures
Share any last-minute concerns

Review the Scope: Walk through the project together:

Confirm work area boundaries
Discuss areas that are off-limits
Review the project timeline
Ask about the crew’s typical daily routine
Establish communication preferences

18. Establish Communication Protocols

Daily Updates: Decide how you’ll stay informed:

End-of-day check-ins (in person or by phone/text)
Photos of daily progress
Immediate notification of any issues or needed decisions
Weekly formal progress meetings for longer projects

Decision-Making: Establish a clear process for:

Who has authority to approve changes
How change orders will be communicated and documented
Response time expectations for questions
What constitutes an emergency that requires immediate contact

19. Document Everything

Take Photos and Videos:

Photograph the entire work area from multiple angles
Capture existing conditions (helpful for insurance or disputes)
Take photos of adjacent areas
Document valuable items you’ve protected
Save these photos with dates and organize by project phase

Keep a Project Journal: Consider maintaining a simple log:

Daily crew arrival and departure times
Who was present each day
Work completed
Materials delivered
Issues or concerns
Conversations about changes
Weather conditions (relevant for exterior work)

Special Considerations for Different Project Types

Kitchen Renovations

Set up a temporary kitchen in another room (dining room, garage, spare bedroom)
Stock paper plates, cups, plastic utensils
Arrange alternative cooking methods (microwave, toaster oven, slow cooker, outdoor grill)
Plan simple meals that don’t require extensive cooking
Empty and clean out the refrigerator if it’s being replaced
Plan for eating out more often or meal prep before work begins

Bathroom Renovations

Identify which bathroom remains available
Stock the available bathroom with extra supplies
Consider a backup plan if your only bathroom is being renovated
Remove all personal items from medicine cabinets and vanities
Clean and clear shower/tub areas completely

Roofing Projects

Move cars away from the house (falling debris hazard)
Cover pool or hot tub (if applicable)
Protect gardens and landscaping with plywood or tarps
Secure or move patio furniture and decorations
Plan for noise and vibration throughout the house
Expect some drywall cracks or nail pops from vibration
Keep windows closed on work days to prevent dust and debris entry

Exterior Painting or Siding

Trim bushes and plants away from the house
Move outdoor furniture, grills, planters away from work areas
Secure or remove loose items (garden decorations, welcome mats, etc.)
Cover outdoor AC units and pool equipment
Ensure all windows close properly
Remove or secure window screens

Whole-Home Renovations

Consider temporary relocation
Pack up entire home as if moving
Label all boxes by room and contents
Rent a storage unit for furniture and belongings
Forward mail to temporary address
Set up utilities at temporary residence
Plan for extended time frame

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Underestimating Dust and Debris: Dust travels farther than you think. Seal off the work area more thoroughly than seems necessary, and expect to clean areas you thought were protected.

2. Not Planning for Daily Disruptions: Construction affects daily routines. Plan your schedule around noisiest work, and have backup plans for calls/meetings if you work from home.

3. Leaving Valuables Accessible: Even with trustworthy contractors, it’s wise to secure valuables. This protects both you and the contractors from any questions or concerns.

4. Poor Communication: Assuming contractors know your preferences without clear communication leads to misunderstandings. Be explicit about your expectations.

5. Being Unavailable: While you don’t need to hover, being completely unreachable can cause delays when questions arise that halt progress.

6. Not Protecting Enough Space: Contractors need room to move materials and tools. Don’t just clear the immediate work area—think about paths and staging areas.

7. Forgetting About Access: Make sure contractors can easily get to the work area without navigating obstacles or squeezing through tight spaces with equipment.

8. Inadequate Debris Planning: Confirm where construction debris should go. Dumpster placement needs approval in many areas, and you’ll need clear paths to remove debris.

Budget-Friendly Preparation Tips

You don’t need to spend a fortune preparing your home:

Use What You Have:

Old sheets and blankets for covering furniture
Cardboard boxes for packing and protecting items
Painter’s tape for securing protective materials
Existing storage bins for organizing displaced items

DIY Protection:

Make your own corner guards from cardboard
Create floor protection from taped-together trash bags
Use old towels as draft stoppers under doors

Free or Low-Cost Solutions:

Get free boxes from grocery stores or liquor stores
Borrow furniture dollies from friends for moving heavy items
Use paper grocery bags for packing cabinet contents
Request extra plastic sheeting from your contractor

The Week During Construction: Maintaining Preparation

Your preparation work doesn’t end when contractors start:

Daily Maintenance:

Check protective coverings daily and repair as needed
Maintain clear pathways
Remove personal items that migrate into work areas
Keep communication lines open
Document progress with photos

Weekly Reviews:

Check that the project is on schedule
Review any issues or concerns
Assess whether additional protection is needed
Update family on progress and timeline changes

Ongoing Organization:

Keep all project documents in one place
File receipts and invoices promptly
Update your project journal regularly
Maintain clear communication logs

After Project Completion: Cleanup and Restoration

Once work is complete:

Final Inspection:

Walk through with your contractor
Create a punch list of items needing attention
Take “after” photos for your records
Verify all work matches the contract

Cleanup:

Professional contractors should clean thoroughly, but expect to do additional cleaning
Wipe down surfaces multiple times to remove construction dust
Change HVAC filters
Vacuum upholstered furniture
Clean or replace window treatments
Wash walls and floors in adjacent areas

Restoration:

Carefully remove protective coverings
Move furniture back into place
Reinstall window treatments
Replace items removed from cabinets and closets
Restore landscaping if exterior work was done
Touch up paint if needed

Conclusion: Set Your Project Up for Success

Thorough preparation before contractors arrive is an investment in your project’s success. While it requires time and effort upfront, proper preparation pays dividends through:

Faster project completion
Fewer delays and complications
Better protection of your belongings
Clearer communication with contractors
Less stress during construction
Better overall results

Remember, professional contractors appreciate working with prepared homeowners. Your preparation demonstrates respect for their time and professionalism, setting a positive tone for the entire project relationship.

The key is starting early and being systematic. Use the timeline provided in this guide to break preparation into manageable steps. Don’t try to do everything the night before contractors arrive—spread tasks over several weeks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

By following this comprehensive preparation guide, you’ll create an environment where contractors can work efficiently, your home stays protected, and your project stays on track. The few hours you invest in preparation can save you days of delays, prevent damage to your property, and contribute significantly to a successful renovation experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How far in advance should I start preparing my home?
A: Start initial preparation 2-3 weeks before your project begins. Major preparation work should be completed one week out, with final touches done 1-2 days before contractors arrive.

Q: Should I be home every day during construction?
A: You don’t need to be present daily, but be available by phone and try to check in at least every few days. Be present on the first day and for any major milestones or decision points.

Q: What if I can’t move heavy furniture myself?
A: Discuss this with your contractor beforehand. Some contractors include furniture moving in their quote, others charge extra, and some require you to hire movers separately. Clarify this before signing the contract.

Q: How do I protect my home from construction dust?
A: Use plastic sheeting to seal off work areas, cover vents, use door guards with zippers, keep work area doors closed, and ask contractors about using dust barriers. Change HVAC filters frequently during and after construction.

Q: What should I do with my pets during construction?
A: For major projects, consider boarding pets or having them stay with friends/family. For shorter projects, secure pets in a separate area away from construction with clear signage for contractors. Always inform contractors about pets.

Q: Do I need to provide lunch or drinks for contractors?
A: This is not required but is a nice gesture, especially for long projects. At minimum, provide access to water. Some homeowners provide coffee in the morning or occasional pizza for lunch on long projects.

Q: What if I find something that wasn’t prepared properly after work starts?
A: Address it immediately. Pause work in that area if necessary, and make the adjustment. It’s better to briefly delay than to work around preparation issues.

Q: Should I get a storage unit for my belongings?
A: For major whole-home renovations, a storage unit can be very helpful. For smaller projects, moving items to other rooms usually suffices. Consider the duration and extent of your project.

Q: How do I handle unexpected discoveries that require additional prep?
A: Stop work immediately if safety issues are discovered. Discuss the situation with your contractor, get a revised estimate for additional prep work, and document everything in writing through a change order.

Q: What’s the best way to document pre-construction conditions?
A: Take extensive photos and videos from multiple angles, including date stamps. Document existing damage, wall conditions, flooring, and adjacent areas. Store these securely in the cloud or on multiple devices.

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