Renovating your home is an exciting journey whether you're upgrading your kitchen, adding a new room, or giving your entire house a facelift. But amidst the dust and design decisions, one crucial aspect often gets overlooked: home security. At PhoneWatch, we believe that every renovation should be safe, secure, and stress-free.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through renovation planning best practices, how to protect your home during the process, and answer frequently asked questions to help you renovate with confidence.
Step-by-Step Renovation Planning
1. Define Your Renovation Goals
Start by identifying what you want to achieve. Are you improving functionality, increasing space, or boosting property value? Clear goals help guide your budget, timeline, and contractor selection.
2. Set a Realistic Budget
Include costs for materials, labour, permits, and unexpected expenses. Don’t forget to factor in temporary security measures like smart locks or surveillance cameras.
3. Hire Trusted Professionals
Vet contractors thoroughly. Look for:
- Verified licenses and insurance
- Positive reviews and references
- Clear contracts and timelines
4. Secure Necessary Permits
Check with your local council to ensure all renovations comply with building regulations. This protects you legally and structurally.
Best Practices for a Safe Renovation
1. Prioritize Home Security
Renovation can leave your home vulnerable. Only allow authorized personnel into your home. Protect it by:
- Installing a monitored alarm system is ideal, as you an arm and disarm the alarm via an app, or give selected people keytags to enter your home, without having to enter an alarm code.
- Securing valuables or important documents in a safe or off-site location
- Notifying your home security provider about the renovation
2. Communicate with Your Contractor
Discuss security expectations upfront. Ensure they lock up daily, manage subcontractors responsibly, and report any incidents. It is vital to hire a reputable contractor and even better if you get recommendations from family and friends who have previously dealt with them.
Ensure that your contractor has proper insurance and licensing. Also ask if they use subcontractors and if so, who are they and also review their online presence and reviews.
3. Notify Your Security Provider
If you already have an alarm, let your home security company know about the renovation. They may offer temporary solutions or adjust your system to accommodate changes. Depending on the type of renovation work you are having done, they may need to deinstall security sensors in certain areas of your home that is having work done and reinstall them when your renovation is complete. At PhoneWatch, we provide videos on how to deinstall and reinstall sensors depending on the alarm system you have.
How to Protect Your Home During Renovation
Renovation can expose your home to risks like theft, vandalism, and accidental damage. Here’s how to stay protected:
- Cover exposed entry points: Use plywood or temporary doors to seal off areas under construction.
- Monitor with smart tech: Use alarm apps or camera apps to check video feeds and receive instant alerts.
- Keep neighbours informed: They can help keep an eye out for suspicious activity.
- Schedule deliveries wisely: Avoid leaving materials unattended outside.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Should I turn off my security system during renovation?
No. Instead, update your system to accommodate construction zones. Many providers offer flexible solutions for temporary changes. Simply call them and find out their specific guidelines for your renovation.
Can contractors access my security system?
Only if absolutely necessary. Use guest access features or temporary codes and revoke them once the project ends.
What’s the best way to secure tools and materials?
Lock them in a garage or shed with motion-sensor lighting and surveillance. Avoid leaving items in plain sight.
Will renovation affect my insurance?
Possibly. Notify your insurer about major renovations to ensure coverage remains valid and up to date.
How do I protect my home if I’m living elsewhere during renovation?
Use remote monitoring tools such as home alarms to have an Alarm Receiving Centre monitor your home 24 /7 and receive instant app alerts of any activity. You can schedule regular check-ins with your contractor and also ask a trusted neighbour or friend to visit periodically.
Renovation is a chance to transform your space but it’s also a time to double down on security. With the right planning and protection, you can enjoy the process and the results without worry.
Need help securing your home during renovation? Contact PhoneWatch today for tailored home security solutions.