Living In or Moving Out During a Refurbishment: What Is Worth Knowing

One of the most practical decisions you will face during a refurbishment is whether to 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, your family circumstances, and your tolerance for disruption. Here is what you need to consider.

When Living In Makes Sense

If your refurbishment is limited to certain areas of the home, it may be possible to live in while work is carried out around you. For example, if you are renovating the upper floors of a townhouse, you may be able to occupy the ground floor and basement during that phase, then swap as the project progresses. This phased approach can work well for homeowners who want to stay close to the project and avoid the cost and inconvenience of renting a temporary property. However, it does require a contractor who is experienced in managing occupied properties and who understands the importance of minimising disruption to daily life.

When Moving Out Is the Better Option

For a full refurbishment involving structural works, rewiring, replumbing, and replastering, living in is usually impractical. The dust, noise, and lack of functioning services make it extremely difficult to maintain any sense of normality. For families with young children, this is especially true. Moving into temporary accommodation allows the contractor to work more efficiently, often shortening 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 so they can visit the site regularly without living in the chaos.

The Cost of Temporary Accommodation

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

Protecting Your Belongings

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

Managing the Emotional Side

A refurbishment can be an emotional experience, particularly 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 establish clear boundaries between the construction zone and your living space. Regular communication with your project manager is essential so you know what to expect each week. At NU Projects, we pride ourselves on keeping our clients informed and supported throughout the process.

Making the Right Decision for Your Family

There is no one size fits all answer. The right choice depends on your project, your family, and your personal priorities. What matters most is that you make an informed decision with realistic expectations. If you are planning a refurbishment in London and want honest advice about what living through a build really involves, get in touch with NU Projects. We will help you plan every aspect of your project, including this one.