Before Work Starts
Planning
- Set realistic budget (+20% contingency)
- Understand full timeline
- Get all approvals
- Finalize all design decisions
Protecting Your Home
- Clear the work area
- Cover furniture in dust sheets
- Protect floors in traffic areas
- Remove valuables
Living Through It
- Set up temporary kitchen if needed
- Plan for bathroom access
- Prepare for noise and dust
- Consider temporary relocation for major work
Communication
- Establish primary contact
- Set up regular check-ins
- Agree on working hours
- Know how to raise concerns
Documentation
- Keep contract accessible
- Document existing condition
- Track all variations in writing
- Keep payment records