The trucks are booked. The tools are ready. Your contractor is scheduled. It’s finally happening—your renovation is about to begin.
But before that satisfying first swing of the hammer, there’s some important prep work to do behind the scenes. Starting a renovation without a plan is like going on a road trip with no map. It leads to delays, confusion, and unnecessary stress.
This pre-renovation checklist is designed specifically for homeowners in Sault Ste. Marie, where weather, space, and older home designs often add unique challenges. Follow these tips to keep your reno running smoothly from day one.
🧼 1. Clear the Space
This one seems obvious, but many homeowners underestimate how much needs to move. Your contractor can’t work efficiently (or safely) if your furniture, personal items, or decor are still in the way.
What to do:
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Empty all cabinets, shelves, and closets in the reno zone
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Remove wall hangings, light fixtures, and electronics
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Move furniture into a different room or rented storage
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Protect nearby areas with plastic or dust barriers
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Local Tip: If your renovation is during the colder months in SSM, make sure walkways and entrances are clear of snow and ice for tradespeople and deliveries.
🧰 2. Make a Plan for Daily Life
If your kitchen is getting torn apart, where will you cook? If your bathroom is being redone, where will you shower? Make a game plan for how your household will function during the renovation.
Consider:
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Setting up a temporary kitchen with microwave, kettle, and toaster
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Prepping freezer meals ahead of time
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Showering at the gym or a relative’s house
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Relocating pets or small children during the messiest stages
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If the work is extensive, some homeowners choose to stay elsewhere temporarily—especially if major plumbing or electrical is disrupted.
đź“ž 3. Communicate With Your Contractor
Before demo day, sit down with your contractor or project manager and confirm the final scope of work. This is your chance to double-check expectations and eliminate surprises.
Be clear about:
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Hours crews are allowed on-site
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Which bathroom they can use (if any)
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Where tools and materials will be stored
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Who to contact for updates or questions
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Pro Tip: Print out a basic calendar with the project timeline and key milestones. Post it in a common area so your family can stay in the loop.
🧾 4. Double-Check Permits, Approvals & Materials
Permits should already be in place by demo day, but this is the time to double-check everything is ready.
Make sure:
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All building and electrical permits have been issued
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Design decisions are finalized (no last-minute tile swaps!)
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Special-order materials have been delivered or scheduled
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Your deposit and paperwork are squared away
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Delays often come from unclear selections or late-arriving materials—you can avoid that by being proactive now.
🧹 5. Expect Dust (and Plan for It)
Even a minor renovation creates dust—lots of it. Fine drywall particles can travel through vents, under doors, and settle into rooms you weren’t even renovating.
To prep:
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Seal off vents with plastic
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Use zippered dust barriers to isolate work zones
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Remove delicate electronics or cover them tightly
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Buy extra furnace filters—your HVAC system will need them
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Local Tip: In older Sault homes, renovations may stir up hidden allergens or materials like old insulation or plaster dust—ventilation is key!
âś… BONUS: Mentally Prepare for the Unexpected
Even with the best plan, renos rarely go 100% according to schedule. Weather, material backorders, and hidden issues behind walls can all throw a wrench in things.
Take a deep breath, trust your contractor, and know that flexibility and communication are your best tools when surprises arise.
✅ Feeling ready? We’ll help you prep for your reno the right way—from demo day through to the final walkthrough. You focus on the vision, and we’ll handle the logistics.
➤ Call us today to schedule your reno kickoff meeting!