How to Protect your Home during Renovations

Renovating your home is a great way to increase its value, but if you don’t take the proper precautions it is also one of the top ways to see it damaged. And we’re not just talking aesthetics. You have to account for unlicensed contractors, vandalism, plumbing leaks and a whole host of other problems.

So how do you ensure that your home renovations go as smoothly as possible, from start to finish? Here are some tips:

Tips for Protecting your Home during Renovations

Read before you sign off. First of all, you should always read the fine print before signing any contract. This is especially true when it comes to home renovations and “waiving your right to subrogation.” When you waive your right to subrogation, you waive your ability to recoup any monies from a third party (insurer) should the contractor be found negligent.

Ensure your contractor is insured. Request a certificate of insurance from your contractor. The liability limits should be equal to or greater than the total insured value of the project.

Stay connected. Do not allow anyone to disconnect your fire or security alarms. Instead, keep them covered during the day when they are more likely to be set off by dirt and dust, and then uncover them in the evenings when the work crew has gone for the night.

Deter vandals. An empty home can be awfully enticing to vandals and thieves – especially in the evenings. Motion-activated lights, fencing, gates and security guards are a great way to deter would-be vandals. Also, lock your doors!

Be prepared. At the end of every day, the construction crew should be cleaning up the worksite. That means tools and spare materials are put away, garbage and other waste products have been taken out, and all flammable materials (and rags) have been properly stored or disposed of. But, a fire can break out at any time, even when crews are on hand, so be sure that you always have a fire extinguisher nearby.

Maintain your insurance coverage. The contractor isn’t the only one who needs to be insured. Make sure that your Home Insurance is up to date in accounting for the increased value of your home.

Source – Chubb Tips: How to protect your home during home renovation or construction

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