In short: You can live at home during a renovation if the work is done in stages, the room being renovated is sealed off from dust and you agree a clear schedule with the contractor. The hardest time is when the bathroom and kitchen are being renovated, so prepare for it in advance.
Moving out during a renovation isn't always possible or necessary. With good planning you can live at home while the work goes on – it just takes a little patience and a good agreement with your contractor.
Renovate in stages
If the whole apartment isn't renovated at once, you can live in the other rooms. A good order is to start with rooms you can avoid for a while and leave the bedroom until last.
During a bathroom renovation
A bathroom renovation is the most disruptive, as you lose your place to wash for a while. Plan ahead where you can shower – for example at relatives', friends' or a gym. If the apartment has a separate toilet, it usually stays usable.
During a kitchen renovation
Set up a temporary kitchen corner elsewhere: a kettle, microwave and small fridge. Dishes can be washed in the bathroom basin.
Dust
Demolition and sanding create a lot of dust. Separate the room being renovated with plastic sheeting or a dust wall, tape the doors and keep furniture covered in the rest of the home. A good contractor cleans up at the end of each day.
Noise and working hours
Agree with your contractor when the noisy work will happen, especially if there are small children at home or someone works from home. Follow your association's house rules and let the neighbours know.
A clear schedule
What helps most is a clear schedule: when work happens in which room and when it will be finished. Then you can plan your life around it.
Frequently asked questions
Can I live at home during a bathroom renovation?
Yes, but plan in advance where you can wash. See also how long a bathroom renovation takes.
How can I reduce dust?
Seal off the room with plastic sheeting or a dust wall, tape the doors shut and cover the furniture.
Which room should be renovated last?
The bedroom. That way you have a quiet place to sleep throughout the renovation.
We plan the renovation with you so it fits your life. Read more about full apartment renovation or ask for a free quote.
