Under Renovation: Stay or Go?
Every renovator asks themselves the question: Should I stay in my home while I renovate or find another place to go until it’s completed? Some renovators decide to stay in their home while it undergoes construction. Some decide to rent, stay at a hotel or go on vacation during the process. However, the answer usually depends on the scope of the project, its timeline and whether your family can endure the interrupted routine.
But how do you know what option is right for you?
Money issues
While renting costs money, staying in your home may have hidden costs you’re unaware of until you come across them. Some professionals may charge more for clients who decided to stay in their home throughout the renovation, specifically in regard to a faster clean-up and rush in mechanical work so that plumbing and electrical services aren’t interrupted.
Purpose and scope
The type of renovation project you’re undertaking is the defining factor in your decision to either stay or go. For example, if the project involves having your roof removed in preparation for a second story, you’ll likely need to move out. However, if the project only requires one bathroom to be renovated, you might have the option to stay if you have two.
Usually, if the work includes more than half of your home and affects all bathrooms and the kitchen, you will most likely need to find another place. Most families may be able to get by without a kitchen for a little while, but without a bathroom, there is no place for you to take a shower or wash the dishes.
The timeline of the project may also affect your decision. For a project that may last a few weeks, it might be worth staying. However, if the project will disrupt your routine for a few months, you’ll get fed up quickly.
Curious kids
If you have children, you’ll understand the unending curiosity and mischief that comes along with a child’s fascination. Children are often fascinated by the work that goes on during a renovation, which could cause an issue if they spend their time engaging with workers, which could delay their work.
Pets
If you decide to stay and have pets, you’ll need to find a way to keep them away from the construction area – and that’s half the struggle. Temporary doors may provide some assistance, but the excessive noise and activity may cause your animals to stress, even if they’re physically separated from the area.
Dust, dust and more dust
Even with site protection, if the renovation involves knocking down walls or drilling, you’ll find that dust will collect in troves around the house. You’ll need to make sure you turn off the air-con unit to minimise the amount of dust circulating throughout your home.
Considerations to be aware of when staying:
· Know the construction schedule
· Create construction free areas
· Remove fragile belongings
· Shoes on when in or around the construction area
Whether you decide to stay or go, you’ll need to prepare and implement a proper game plan for the duration of the renovation.
At Select, we make finance simple. If you need extra finance to cover the costs of the renovation, give us a call on (08) 9417 3399 to speak with one of our brokers.