Ensuring Safety During Home Renovations
A home renovation can be an exciting project, adding value and enhancing your living space. However, it also introduces potential risks—from security concerns to environmental hazards and structural safety. At Corken + Company, we’ve spent over 20 years helping homeowners buy, sell, lease, and manage properties across Colorado. Our experience has shown that proper planning and safeguards are essential to protect your home, belongings, and loved ones during a renovation.
1. Secure Your Home From Theft
Renovation projects often involve multiple contractors, deliveries, and open access points, making your home more vulnerable to theft. Here’s how to protect it:
• Limit Entry Points: Keep doors and windows secured when not in use, and ensure contractors follow security protocols.
• Install a Security System: Motion-activated cameras and smart locks can help you monitor the home in real time.
• Protect Valuables: Move expensive items and important documents to a secure location away from construction zones.
Want to learn more about securing your home? Read our guide on home security tips for Colorado homeowners.
2. Minimize Environmental Hazards
If your home was built before the 1980s, you may encounter materials like lead paint, asbestos, or mold during renovations. Exposure to these can pose serious health risks, especially for children and pets.
• Test for Hazards: Before demolition, have professionals check for toxic materials and arrange proper removal.
• Improve Ventilation: Use air purifiers and keep windows open to disperse dust and fumes.
• Seal Off Work Areas: Contain dust and debris by setting up plastic barriers in doorways and hallways.
3. Fire Prevention During Renovations
With power tools, electrical work, and flammable materials in use, the risk of accidental fires increases. Reduce this risk with the following steps:
• Keep Fire Extinguishers Accessible: Ensure there is a working fire extinguisher near renovation areas.
• Check Smoke Detectors: Test smoke alarms regularly and replace batteries if needed.
• Dispose of Waste Safely: Sawdust, rags, and flammable chemicals should be stored and discarded properly.
4. Protect Your Home’s Structure
Major renovations can impact your home’s structural integrity, particularly when removing walls or altering load-bearing components.
• Hire Experienced Contractors: Work with licensed professionals who understand structural reinforcements.
• Obtain Necessary Permits: Ensure all work complies with Colorado building codes.
• Schedule Inspections: Conduct inspections at key stages of the project to prevent long-term issues.
5. Keep Family & Pets Safe
Construction zones are not safe for children or pets, as they contain hazards like sharp tools, exposed wiring, and heavy materials.
• Establish Restricted Areas: Keep pets and children away from active construction zones.
• Use Temporary Living Spaces: If possible, set up alternative living arrangements for the duration of major renovations.
• Schedule Work Hours Wisely: Arrange for quiet hours during critical parts of the day, especially if working from home.
Final Thoughts
Renovating your home should be an exciting and rewarding experience—not a stressful one. By taking the right precautions, you can ensure that your home remains safe, secure, and protected throughout the process.
At Corken + Company, we specialize in guiding homeowners through every step of real estate ownership—whether buying, selling, leasing, or managing properties. If you’re renovating and thinking about your home’s future market value, reach out to our team for expert guidance.
📞 303-858-8003 | 🌐 www.corken.co
