Renovating your home – can you live there while its happening?

A home renovation project is exciting, but it can also be stressful. One stressor is deciding whether to leave the property or continue living there during renovations. Both options have pros and cons, and whether you have the choice depends on the type of renovation work being done.

Some renovation work only affects part of the property, such as converting an attic or improving the outdoor space with porous paving. In these cases, you can live happily in your home with just a minor disruption. This is not always the case.

When you will need to move out during renovation work

There will be times when you have to make other living arrangements during home renovations. These include renovations where:

• The roof of your home is being replaced.
• Asbestos is being removed.
• Major mold removal is involved.
• More than half of the property is being renovated at once.
• All of the bathrooms are out of action.
• The kitchen cannot be used for a significant period.

You will not be able to live safely in your home during these renovations. There will be times when you can remain in your home; whether you choose to do so is up to you.

Should you remain at home during renovations?

There are several reasons why it makes sense to find somewhere else to stay while your home is being renovated:

• You do not have to live with dust and grime for several weeks.
• You do not have to deal with any inconveniences caused by living on-site.
• The project may finish sooner as the construction professionals do not have to work around you.

However, there are also advantages to remaining at home while renovation work is being carried out:

• It’s usually the cheaper option.
• You can keep an eye on the progress of the renovations.
• You are easily available if there are any issues to resolve.

If you do decide to stay on-site, there are things you can do to make life easier.

Making it easier to live with renovation work

If you are considering your home during renovation work, the most essential thing you need to do is plan.

Think about how you will manage cooking, sleeping, and maintaining everyone’s safety. It’s also a good idea to have a place in your home that can be separated and kept free from debris as an oasis in the chaos.

Back-up plans should always be in place if you need to vacate the premises at any point. This may happen if your kitchen or bathroom is unexpectedly out of action for a lengthy period or you must escape for a few days. Make arrangements to stay with friends or relatives, or put money away for a hotel, just in case.

If renovation work in your home is significant, you may have no choice but to move out. If not, you may have the choice to stay on-site. Think about your options carefully and make the right decision for you.