Prep saves time and frustration
Crews work faster and more carefully in clear rooms. Furniture against a wet wall, full sink cabinets and a blocked attic hatch all slow the first day and raise the chance of something getting scuffed or dusty. An hour or two of prep the weekend before pays off.
Ask the contractor which rooms they will open and when, then use the lists below. If someone in the house works from home, has health concerns about dust, or has pets that roam, plan around that now.
Countdown
- Two weeks out
- Confirm the schedule, permit status and which rooms are affected.
- One week out
- Arrange pet care, plan showers and meals for water-off hours.
- Weekend before
- Clear rooms, empty cabinets, clear the attic hatch area.
- Night before
- Fill water containers, charge devices, park cars out of the way.
- Morning of
- Walk the crew lead through the house and show valve and attic locations.
Room by room
- Bathrooms: remove items from vanities, toilet tanks and shower niches.
- Kitchen: empty the sink base cabinet; cover counters.
- Laundry: pull the washer out if hookups will be replaced, or ask the crew.
- Hallways: take down pictures on walls that share plumbing.
- Garage: clear space around the water heater and main line.
- Attic: clear stored items near the hatch and along likely routes.
- Outdoors: make room at hose bibs and along the side yard.
What to protect from dust
| Item | Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Electronics | Cover or move to an unaffected room |
| Upholstered furniture | Move or cover with sheets |
| Clothing in closets on plumbing walls | Bag or move temporarily |
| HVAC returns near work areas | Ask the crew about covering them |
Confirm with the crew lead on day one
- Which rooms are you starting in today?
- When will the water go off, and when will it be back?
- Which bathroom can we use tonight?
- Where should we not walk or park?
Common questions
Do I need to move heavy furniture myself?
Ask the contractor. Some crews will move it; others expect rooms to be cleared.
Should I leave during the work?
Not necessarily. Many families stay. Plan a quiet space away from the work rooms.
What about the irrigation system?
Ask whether irrigation will be affected and turn controllers off while water is shut off.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.