When can I leave my dog alone in the house (outside of the crate)?

Dear Ed,

First of all your tapes and products are outstanding and I recommend them to anyone who has a dog.

My pup is now 9 months old. I crate trained him from the very beginning when I brought him home. Everything that you said in the tape "Your Puppy 8 weeks to 8 months" is true. He seems to be doing fine without supervision and does not tear into the couch cushions, shoes, etc. He seems to be very well behaved after being in the crate for 8 months.

Question: When is a good time to let him "roam free" and have the run of the house? (Run of the house being the kitchen and family room only!)

Regards,
Tim