How to Prepare Your Home for a Remodel: 15 Tips from a Georgia Contractor

You Signed the Contract — Now What?

Congratulations on starting your renovation! But before the crew arrives, there are things you can do to make the process smoother, faster, and less stressful. Here are 15 tips from our experience completing hundreds of projects across Georgia.

Before Construction Starts

1. Clear the Work Area Completely

Remove everything from the room being renovated — furniture, decorations, personal items, electronics. The more you clear, the faster we can work and the less risk of accidental damage.

2. Create a Temporary Kitchen (for Kitchen Remodels)

Set up a folding table, microwave, coffee maker, and cooler in another room. You'll be without a kitchen for 4-8 weeks. Plan for more takeout and simple meals.

3. Protect Nearby Rooms

We install dust barriers, but fine drywall dust gets everywhere. Cover electronics, move valuable artwork, and consider temporarily relocating items from adjacent rooms.

4. Plan for Bathroom Access

If your only bathroom is being renovated, discuss with your contractor. We can often keep the toilet functional until the last possible day. For longer projects, a portable restroom may be needed.

5. Notify Your Neighbors

A courtesy heads-up about noise, work trucks, and dumpsters goes a long way. Most Georgia HOAs also require notification of exterior work.

During Construction

6. Establish a Communication Routine

Agree on daily or weekly check-ins with your project manager. We prefer a single point of contact to avoid conflicting instructions.

7. Keep Kids and Pets Away from Work Areas

Construction zones have sharp materials, power tools, and open electrical. We secure work areas, but keeping children and pets in a separate part of the house is essential.

8. Don't Make Changes Mid-Project Without Discussion

Change orders are the #1 cause of budget overruns. If you want to change something, discuss it with your project manager first so we can price it and assess the schedule impact.

9. Be Available for Decisions

Construction reveals surprises — especially in older Georgia homes. Be reachable for decisions about unexpected issues like outdated wiring, plumbing problems, or structural discoveries.

10. Expect Some Disruption

There will be noise (7am-6pm), dust, and periods without water or electricity in the work area. This is normal. A good contractor minimizes it, but renovation is inherently disruptive.

Pro Tips

11-15: The Details That Matter

• 11. Photograph everything before work starts — for insurance and comparison.
• 12. Set up a delivery zone — materials will arrive throughout the project. Clear a garage bay or driveway space.
• 13. Check your homeowner's insurance — ensure your policy covers renovation-related incidents. Your contractor should have their own insurance (we do).
• 14. Plan your move-back — have a clean-up day planned and new furniture/decor ordered with delivery dates after the project completion date.
• 15. Enjoy the process — watching your home transform is exciting. Take progress photos and enjoy the journey!

Ready to Get Started?

See our step-by-step renovation process to know exactly what to expect. Get your free estimate today.