That is a bit of a problem. Having been in the design industry for over 30 years, I can say not being there to supervise construction work often results in unanticipated surprises. If you hired a general contractor or designer, he/she is supposed to be the one supervising all of the subcontractors. Unfortunately, when contractors juggle several jobs at the same time, there are long stretches of time that the sub-contractors could be working in your home unattended. I never let that happen, either in client's homes, nor in my home. Although the contractor's I hired were licensed, bonded and insured, disasters still happen, things get broken, subs misinterpret instructions, etc.

A few suggestions. Have a friend or relative drop in from time to time to check the progress of the work. I do this for my neighbors who are working and having contractors remodel their home. I never come by at the same time so that they cannot become secure with a schedule. I get to know who is working there and have an idea from the neighbor's what work is supposed to be done and by when. I phone my neighbor's just as I would a client, right while I am there if any problems arise. If there is any way you can also drop by at lunch it will keep the contractors on their toes, too. At the very least, maintain telephone contact twice daily with the general contractor to make certain that the schedule is being maintained and problems that arise are resolved in a timely manner.

Generally speaking, theft isn't your biggest problem. I've seen unauthorized use of the telephone to make long distance international calls in my own home when I left to pick up lunch in appreciation for the workers remodeling my own kitchen! Lesson learned, protect yourself, do not leave personal documents, valuables, or access to anything you cannot risk being violated.

I have a cyber friend that just had an upstairs bath remodelled and she gave the employer of the workers the key. Of course you need to remove all valuables. It worked out well for her. I guess this is a common practice.

Be aware that they don't get the work done all in one day.

I do remodeling work. I would recommend that you get references from the contractor. Give those folk a call and see what they say. You could also call the real estate agent that you worked with. Most agent have people that they can recommend as well. Also, there is a website, Angie's List that people can rate contractors on. Another option is to call your local fire department and see if any of those guys do remodeling work. We all have 2nd jobs to keep us busy on our days off. For me, my name is worth more than anything that you own. Hope these options may help.

By all means NO NO NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you have to, pay someone you trust to stay at the house with them. People can only be trusted so far. I could tell you some REAL HORROR STORIES

If you're using a reputable contractor,their employees are all bonded.You should be safe.
Give the foreman/supervisor the key and he'll be responsible for letting his employees in and out.
If you've done your research and hired someone with a good reputation,you shouldn't have to worry about the work being done to your specs.DO NOT pay money up front,or only pay a small portion.That way if you're not satisfied,you have recourse.
You really need to do your research and anyone with a good reputation will allow you to see work they've done in your area etc.You may also want to check them out with the Better Business Bureau.

i would make sure there bonded and insured. only give them enough money for materials to start.my husband and i use to do that kind of work if they wanted something different we did it if you want something added that wasnt included in original contract it would be extra. i guess you would have to get referrals too . good luck