Protecting Yourself And Your Home
From Theft During A Remodel

Consider the following tips for protecting yourself and your home from theft during a remodel:

Protect your valuables. If the remodeling is taking place in an area where valuables are kept, such as a bedroom, keep things such as jewelry boxes and cash out of sight. Never leave wallets, cash, wedding rings, or anything of value lying around, even if you are accustomed to doing so. You may want to get a small safe and lock your belongings in there for safe keeping, and then stow it in an area that is away from traffic or workers.

Protect your materials. Oftentimes, the remodeling site will be full of expensive new materials like tubs, fixtures, and appliances are prime targets for thefts. Lock your materials that aren't being used in the garage or a small storage shed each night so you know they are protected. In addition, you will want to take inventory of your things each day in order to make sure everything is accounted for.

Don't disconnect your burglar alarm while remodeling. If you have a security system, avoid turning it off. Often, a remodeling site can produce a great deal of dust and sawdust, and workers might recommend you shut it off. Instead of doing this, however, cover the sensors with plastic bags or special tops so they won't be triggered. Then, remove them when you are home.

Make sure no one uninvited goes to the construction site. It's easy for skilled burglars to get in and out of a construction or remodeling site. Take extra steps to make sure they stay away, however, by installing motion sensors around your home or putting up gates or chains across your driveway or the remodeling site.

Hire reputable workers. If you are remodeling your home, make sure the contractors or workers are reputable and in good standing. With their reputation and future business at stake, they will often go to lengths to make sure nothing unlawful happens on the remodeling site, especially theft.

Make unannounced visits to the remodeling site. If you are not living in your home while it's being remodeled, you may consider dropping by unannounced every now and again to make sure nothing has been misplaced or missing, and to check on things.

Check your insurance. Before you begin remodeling, make sure your homeowners or property insurance is up to date and includes coverage against theft.

Ask neighbors to keep an eye on things. If you are not living in your home while it is being remodeled, ask your neighbors to keep an eye on it while you're gone, especially at night. If they see unfamiliar cars or trucks parked outside your home after the workers have gone home, or if they notice any kind of suspicious activity, have them call the police.

Home remodeling can often leave your home and your belongings vulnerable to theft. Make sure you take the proper precautions, such as those outlines above, to keep your things safe while you are remodeling. 

By Dan Calderwood