Renovation Pre-Start Checklist
Before the hammer strikes. Logistics and protection steps to take before contractors walk through your door.
By Dan Gold · Sources reviewed
Prepare a written plan for scope, money, permits, dust and household access. Pay special attention to older paint and suspected asbestos before any disturbance; ordinary plastic sheeting alone is not a hazardous-material plan.
Work through the checklist
- Contract: Agree scope, exclusions, materials, milestones, change orders, payment schedule and completion/cleanup obligations in writing.
- Credentials: Verify required licensing with the issuing authority and insurance with the appropriate provider, not just a logo on a quote.
- Permits: Ask the local authority what is required and assign responsibility for permits and staged inspections.
- Materials: Verify exact models, dimensions, quantities and realistic delivery/storage dates before dependent work starts.
- Worker access: Agree parking, toilets, water, work hours, authorized access and pet/child separation.
- Surface protection: Use suitable floor/path protection that will not damage finishes or block exits.
- Containment: Have the contractor plan dust control, ventilation and HVAC isolation. Do not casually block returns while running the system.
- Hazard assessment: For pre-1978 paint or suspected asbestos, arrange appropriate assessment and trained work practices before demolition.
- Belongings: Move valuables and sensitive items away from the work zone and photograph pre-work condition.
- Communication: Choose a contact, update schedule and written change-approval process; tell neighbors about expected disruption.
- Payment and acceptance: Check state rules on deposits, understand lien/receipt procedures and tie payments to agreed verified work rather than blanket percentages.
Progress is saved in this browser. Revised tasks start a new checklist.
Check the result and follow up
Hold a pre-start meeting and save the approved documents. Confirm emergency access, containment and material readiness before workers begin. Record changed scope before authorizing it, inspect at the agreed milestones and keep a final defect/cleanup list. Neither a fixed twenty-percent contingency nor a key lockbox guarantees a trouble-free project.
Sources and scope
- FTC: hiring a home-improvement contractor
- EPA: lead-safe renovation
- EPA: indoor air quality during remodeling
These references support the guidance above. Source review is not a hands-on test of your home or a certification of a product. Follow the instructions for your exact model and local requirements.
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