Clear the work zones
Move furniture at least a metre from every window or door being replaced, and take down curtains, blinds, and wall decorations near the openings. Crews work faster — and break less — in a clear room. Confirm with your installer how much clearance they want; the number varies by company.
Remove valuables and fragile items from the rooms being worked on. Dust travels further than you expect.
Protect what stays
Ask the crew what floor and furniture protection they provide, and supplement it where you care most. Old window removal generates dust and debris; a crew that lays protection without being asked is a good sign.
Cover nearby electronics and consider closing HVAC vents in work rooms during the dustiest phases, reopening them afterwards.
Plan for people and pets
Keep children and pets away from work areas — installers carry glass and use tools in every room they touch. Doors will be open repeatedly, so plan for pets accordingly. If you work from home, expect noise during removal and installation; the quietest phases are measuring and finishing.
Do the final walkthrough properly
Before the crew leaves, open and close every window and door, check every lock, and look at the interior and exterior finishing around each unit. Note anything imperfect on the completion paperwork rather than mentioning it casually. This walkthrough is also when you should receive warranty documents and care instructions — ask for them if they are not offered.