Living in or moving out during a refurb

One of the most practical decisions you will face during a refurbishment is this. Do you remain in your home, or move out while the work takes place? There is no single right answer. It depends on the scope of your project. It also depends on your family circumstances and your tolerance for disruption. Here is what you need to consider.

When living in makes sense

Your refurbishment may be limited to certain areas of the home. In that case it may be possible to live in. The work is carried out around you. For example, you may be renovating the upper floors of a townhouse. You may then be able to occupy the ground floor and basement. That applies during that phase. You can swap as the project progresses. This phased approach can work well for homeowners who want to stay close. It also avoids the cost and inconvenience of renting a temporary property. However, it does require a contractor who is experienced in managing occupied properties. That contractor must also understand the importance of minimising disruption to daily life.

When moving out is the better option

A full refurbishment may involve structural works, rewiring, replumbing, and replastering. In that case living in is usually impractical. The dust, noise, and lack of functioning services make normality extremely difficult to maintain. For families with young children, this is especially true. Moving into temporary accommodation allows the contractor to work more efficiently. This often shortens the programme. It also protects your health and wellbeing during what can be a stressful period. Many of our clients in prime London rent a furnished apartment nearby. They can then visit the site regularly without living in the chaos.

The cost of temporary accommodation

Renting a property during your refurbishment is an additional expense. It should be factored into your overall budget from the start. In prime London, short term rental costs can be significant. This is particularly true for larger families who need equivalent space. Some homeowners choose to stay with family or friends. Others use a hotel for the most intensive phases. Others rent a smaller property than their permanent home as a practical compromise. At NU Projects, we can advise on realistic timescales. You can then plan your temporary accommodation with confidence.

Protecting your belongings

Whether you stay or move out, protecting your belongings is essential. That includes your furniture, artwork, and personal items. For occupied refurbishments, we install dustproof partitions and protective coverings. These keep living areas as clean as possible. If you are moving out, we recommend professional storage for valuable items. We also recommend it for anything that could be damaged by dust or vibration. Clearing the property completely gives the construction team unrestricted access. It also reduces the risk of accidental damage.

Managing the emotional side

A refurbishment can be an emotional experience. This is particularly so when it involves a family home with sentimental value. Living through the disruption adds an extra layer of stress. If you do choose to stay, it helps to set clear boundaries. Keep them between the construction zone and your living space. Regular communication with your project manager is essential. Then you know what to expect each week. At NU Projects a named project manager reports every week. You know what is happening and what is next.

Making the right decision for your family

There is no answer that fits every household. The right choice depends on the project and the family. It also depends on what you can live with. What matters is deciding with the real programme in front of you.

You may want honest advice about what living through a build involves. We can tell you.

To talk to the team, send two lines through the contact form. You can also call 020 7731 6841. We usually reply within a few hours, weekends included.