Should You Move Out During a Renovation or Extension?
Renovating or extending your home can be an exciting journey, but it’s not without its challenges. One of the biggest questions homeowners face is whether to stay put or move out while the work is being done. Both options have their pros and cons, so understanding your situation is key to making the right decision.
Staying in Your Home During Renovation
Living at home during renovations can save money and keep you close to the action, ensuring you’re available for any on-the-spot decisions. However, it’s not always a smooth experience. Here’s what to consider:
- Noise and Disruption: Construction work can be loud and messy, affecting your daily routine.
- Safety Concerns: If you have young children or pets, navigating a building site can be tricky.
- Limited Privacy: Builders coming and going may disrupt your peace, especially if the project involves major structural changes.
Staying on-site works best for smaller projects or renovations limited to one section of the house. If you have access to unaffected areas (like a spare bedroom and bathroom), you might find this option manageable.
Why Moving Out Could Be a Better Option
For larger renovations or extensions that take over significant parts of your home, moving out can make life easier and speed up the project timeline. Here’s why:
- Efficient Progress: Without occupants, builders can work uninterrupted, often completing the project faster.
- Comfort and Convenience: You’ll avoid dust, noise, and disruptions, maintaining a sense of normalcy elsewhere.
- Safety and Health: Major construction often involves dust and fumes, which could pose risks, especially for those with allergies or respiratory issues.
The downside? Finding temporary accommodation can add to your costs. But this extra expense may be worth it for the peace of mind and smoother progress it provides.
Finding Temporary Storage and Relocation Support
If you decide to move out during your renovation, planning your relocation logistics is essential. You’ll need to arrange temporary storage for your belongings and possibly hire a removal company to assist with the move. Searching for removals near me can help you find a local, cost-effective service to simplify the process. Professional removal companies handle packing, transportation, and even storage, ensuring your possessions are safe and secure until your project is complete.
Tips for Making the Right Decision
- Assess the Project Scope: How extensive are the renovations? Small projects may not require you to move, but larger-scale extensions might.
- Consider Your Comfort: Are you willing to live with noise, dust, and disruptions for weeks or months?
- Think About Costs: Compare the costs of staying (temporary partitions, additional cleaning, etc.) versus moving out (rental fees, removals, and storage).
- Discuss with Your Builder: Your contractor can advise whether staying on-site will hinder progress or add complications.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to move out during a renovation or extension is a personal choice, influenced by the scale of the project and your tolerance for disruption. If moving out feels like the best option, start by finding professional movers who can help ease the transition.
Whatever you decide, planning ahead will ensure a smoother renovation experience—and a stunning result when it’s all finished!