Dust and Defense: Your Essential Home Security Checklist During Renovation
Home renovations can be an exciting time, promising a fresh new look and added value to your property. But amidst the dust, deliveries, and increased foot traffic, your home can also become surprisingly vulnerable. With doors and windows potentially left ajar, valuable tools and materials on-site, and a revolving door of contractors, now is the critical time to double down on your security.
As your trusted partner in home safety, Kangaroo is here to guide you through securing your space during this transitional period. Our expert checklist will help you maintain peace of mind while you build your dream home.
Why Renovations Increase Security Risks
Before diving into the checklist, let's understand why renovations create unique security challenges:
Open Access Points: Doors and windows may be temporarily removed or left unsecured for ventilation or material transport.
Valuable Materials and Tools: Expensive items like appliances, fixtures, and contractors' tools are often stored on-site, attracting potential theft.
Increased Foot Traffic: Multiple contractors and delivery personnel accessing your property can create opportunities for unauthorized entry or make it harder to identify suspicious activity.
Distraction: The focus on the renovation project can inadvertently lead to overlooking basic security measures.
Temporary Weakening of Structure: Depending on the nature of the renovation, parts of your home's structure might be temporarily weakened, making forced entry easier.
Your Comprehensive Renovation Security Checklist:
Phase 1: Before the Renovation Begins
Inventory Your Valuables: Take photos and create a detailed list of valuable items before work commences. This will be helpful for insurance purposes in case of theft.
Secure Existing Security Systems: Ensure your existing Kangaroo Home Security system is fully functional before renovations start. Test all sensors , cameras , and sirens.
Communicate with Contractors: Discuss security protocols with your contractors upfront. Establish clear guidelines about locking up at the end of each day and reporting any suspicious activity. Consider asking for background checks or references.
Temporary Storage: If possible, move valuable smaller items to a secure off-site location or a locked room within your home that is not part of the active renovation area.
Review Insurance Coverage: Check your homeowner's insurance policy to ensure it adequately covers theft or damage during renovations.
Phase 2: During the Renovation
Maintain Perimeter Security: Even if doors or windows are temporarily removed, ensure temporary coverings are in place and secured at the end of each workday.
Utilize Door and Window Sensors: Keep your Sensors active on all accessible entry points, even temporary ones if feasible. Consider temporarily relocating sensors as the renovation progresses.
Strategic Camera Placement: Reposition your Cameras to monitor areas with stored materials, entry points used by contractors, and any vulnerable spots created by the renovation. Our Indoor + Outdoor Cam offers flexibility for both inside and outside monitoring.
Control Access: Be mindful of who is entering and leaving your property. If possible, limit access points and ensure contractors lock up properly when they leave.
Secure Tools and Materials: Insist that contractors lock away their tools and secure building materials at the end of each day to prevent theft.
Consider a Temporary Alarm System: If your existing system needs to be temporarily disabled for certain work, consider using a portable Kangaroo Siren + Keypad in a secure area as a deterrent.
Be Vigilant: Keep an eye out for any unfamiliar individuals or vehicles around your property. Report any suspicious activity to the authorities and your contractors.
Phase 3: After the Renovation is Complete
Reactivate and Review Your Security System: Once the renovation is finished, ensure your system is fully reactivated and all components are functioning correctly. Review your camera placements to ensure optimal coverage of the newly renovated areas.
Change Locks: If multiple contractors had access to your property, consider changing your locks for added security.
Dispose of Debris Carefully: Don't leave empty boxes of new appliances or valuable items on the curb for extended periods, as this can signal potential valuables inside your home.
Update Your Home Inventory: Add any new high-value items acquired during the renovation to your home inventory list.
Kangaroo: Your Smart Security Partner During Renovation
Navigating home renovations can be stressful enough without worrying about security. Kangaroo Home Security offers affordable and easy-to-use solutions that provide an extra layer of protection during this vulnerable time. Our wireless sensors, smart cameras, and loud sirens work together to deter intruders and alert you to any suspicious activity, right from your smartphone.
Whether you're undertaking a minor bathroom remodel or a major home overhaul, taking proactive steps to secure your property is essential. By following this checklist and leveraging the smart security of Kangaroo, you can focus on creating your dream home with the peace of mind that your current haven is well-protected.
Ready to enhance your home security during your renovation project? Explore our range of smart and affordable security solutions. Stay safe, stay secure with Kangaroo!
