Project Home Renew Team · Planning
Every successful renovation starts long before the first hammer swings. The decisions you make and the preparation you do in the weeks leading up to a project have a huge influence on how smoothly it runs, how closely it stays to budget and how happy you are with the final result. A clear checklist keeps you organized and helps you avoid the surprises that derail so many projects.
Use this pre-renovation checklist to get your project off to a strong, confident start.
Project Notes
- Define goals, priorities and a realistic budget with a contingency.
- Gather inspiration and make key selections before work begins.
- Vet your renovation team and review the contract carefully.
- Prepare your household and home for the work ahead.
Define your goals
- Write down what you want to achieve: more space, better function, improved comfort, lower energy bills, updated style or increased safety.
- List the problems you want to solve in each room.
- Decide what is essential and what would be nice to have if the plan allows.
- Think about how long you plan to stay in the home, as it affects material and design choices.
Set your budget
- Determine a total budget you're comfortable with.
- Set aside a contingency for unexpected discoveries, especially in older homes.
- Explore financing options early if you'll need them.
- Prioritize spending on items that are difficult to change later, such as structure, layout, roofing and windows.
Gather inspiration
- Collect photos of rooms, materials and details you love.
- Note what specifically appeals to you in each image: color, layout, lighting or texture.
- Visit showrooms to see and touch materials in person.
- Share your inspiration with your design team to communicate your vision clearly.
A renovation goes as smoothly as the plan behind it. Time spent preparing is time saved during construction.
Assess your home's condition
- Schedule an inspection of the roof, windows, electrical, plumbing and heating and cooling systems.
- Look for signs of moisture, mold or structural issues.
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and security systems.
- Address safety and weatherproofing needs before cosmetic upgrades.
Choose your renovation team
- Confirm licensing and insurance.
- Ask about experience with projects similar to yours.
- Understand who will manage your project day to day and how you'll receive updates.
- Compare proposals based on scope, materials and quality, not price alone.
- Ask how changes and unexpected issues are handled.
Review the contract
- Make sure the scope of work is detailed and clear.
- Check that materials, finishes and allowances are listed.
- Review the schedule, payment terms and change order process.
- Confirm who handles permits and inspections.
- Understand warranty coverage for workmanship and products.
Finalize your selections
- Choose flooring, tile, fixtures, cabinetry, countertops, lighting, hardware and paint colors before work begins.
- Confirm product availability and lead times.
- Approve samples in your home's lighting.
- Plan outlet, switch and lighting locations.
- Decide on smart home, security and safety features so wiring can be planned.
Prepare your household
- Decide whether you'll stay in the home or arrange temporary accommodation.
- Set up a temporary kitchen or bathroom area if needed.
- Make arrangements for pets and children to stay safely away from work zones.
- Inform neighbors about the upcoming work.
- Agree on working hours, access arrangements and parking for the crew.
Prepare the space
- Clear the work area of furniture, decor and personal items.
- Protect or store fragile and valuable belongings.
- Cover items in nearby rooms to protect them from dust.
- Identify a staging area for materials and equipment.
Plan communication
- Decide how and how often you'd like updates.
- Keep a project folder for contracts, selections, receipts and warranties.
- Note questions as they come up and review them at regular check-ins.
Stay flexible
Even with careful planning, renovations can bring surprises. Keep your priorities in mind, make decisions promptly and trust your team to guide you through any adjustments. The result will be worth it.
Common Questions
The earlier the better. Allow enough time for design, selections, permits and material lead times before the planned start date.
A detailed scope, materials and allowances, schedule, payment terms, change order process, permit responsibilities and warranty information.
It depends on the scope. Many people stay during smaller projects, while larger projects involving kitchens or bathrooms may be easier with a short stay elsewhere.
Ready to start your project? Our team will guide you through planning, selections and scheduling so your renovation starts on the right foot.