One of the questions we get asked regularly when discussing renovation projects in Ashford is: "Can we stay living in the house while the work is being carried out?" The honest answer is: it depends.

Can You Live in Your House During a Full Home Renovation in Ashford, Surrey?

Can You Live in Your House During a Full Home Renovation in Ashford, Surrey?

Every renovation project is different, and the answer largely comes down to the scale of the work involved, how much of the property is being affected and, perhaps most importantly, your own tolerance for disruption.

Some homeowners manage perfectly well living through a renovation, while others decide that moving out temporarily is the best decision for everyone involved.

It Depends on the Type of Renovation

If you're renovating a single room or carrying out relatively minor works, remaining in the property is often quite manageable.
However, when you're talking about a full home renovation involving structural alterations, rewiring, re-plumbing, new heating systems, plastering and decorating throughout, things become much more challenging.

At certain stages, there may be limited access to kitchens, bathrooms, heating, water or electrics.

This is often the point where homeowners begin to reconsider whether remaining in the property is practical.

The Reality of Living Through Building Work

Television programmes sometimes make renovations look straightforward and relatively tidy.

The reality is usually very different.

Building work creates:

  • Dust
  • Noise
  • Deliveries
  • Tradespeople coming and going
  • Temporary loss of facilities
  • Restricted access to parts of the home

Even with the best protection measures in place, it's still a building site at the end of the day.

For some families, particularly those with young children or pets, that can become tiring over a prolonged period.

What About Kitchens and Bathrooms?

These are usually the biggest considerations.

If your kitchen is being removed and replaced, you'll need to think about how you'll prepare meals during that period.

Similarly, if bathrooms are being renovated, temporary arrangements may need to be made.

On larger projects, these practical issues often become the deciding factor when homeowners are considering whether to stay or move out temporarily.

There Are Benefits to Staying

That said, there are some advantages to remaining in the property.

You can:

  • See progress daily
  • Make decisions quickly
  • Discuss details directly with the team
  • Remain closely involved in the project

Some homeowners feel far more comfortable being present throughout the works, particularly during major refurbishments.

There Are Benefits to Moving Out Too

Equally, moving out can significantly reduce stress.

Without the disruption of day-to-day building works, many homeowners find they can continue with normal life while the project progresses.

In some cases, particularly where extensive structural work is involved, it can also help the build move more efficiently.

What We Usually Advise

Our advice is always based on the specific project.

For smaller refurbishments, staying in the property is often perfectly achievable.

For larger renovations involving multiple rooms, structural alterations and major service upgrades, a temporary move can sometimes make life much easier.

There isn't a right or wrong answer, it simply comes down to the scale of the project and what works best for your family.

Thinking About Renovating Your Home?

If you're considering a full home renovation in Ashford, Surrey, we're always happy to discuss the practical side of the project as well as the construction itself.

Every renovation is different, and helping homeowners understand what to expect is an important part of the process.

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