Should I live in my house during renovation?

Whether you should live in your house during renovation depends on the scope of work, but for major projects involving kitchens, bathrooms, or multiple rooms, temporary relocation often makes the project faster, safer, and less stressful for everyone involved.

The decision really comes down to what's being renovated and your family's tolerance for disruption. Single-room renovations like a basement finishing or spare bedroom makeover are usually manageable to live through, especially if you can close off the work area with plastic sheeting. However, kitchen renovations typically mean 2-4 weeks without cooking facilities, which pushes many Ottawa families to stay with relatives or rent temporary accommodation.

Bathroom renovations present unique challenges - if it's your only full bathroom, you'll need alternative arrangements regardless. Many homeowners tackle bathroom renos during summer when they can use cottage facilities or stay with family. For whole-home renovations or additions, living on-site becomes impractical and potentially unsafe, especially when electrical or HVAC systems are being upgraded.

Ottawa's climate adds another consideration - winter renovations can be particularly disruptive since you can't easily step outside to escape dust and noise. Heating costs also spike when exterior walls are opened up or insulation is removed. Spring through fall renovations are generally more tolerable for occupants.

Safety factors should heavily influence your decision. Any work involving electrical panel upgrades, gas line modifications, or structural changes creates genuine safety risks. ESA electrical work often requires power shutoffs, and TSSA gas work may require temporary service disconnection. Lead paint remediation in Ottawa's many heritage homes absolutely requires evacuation during the abatement process.

Project timeline and efficiency improve significantly when contractors have full access. They can work longer hours without worrying about noise restrictions, store materials throughout the house, and avoid the constant setup/cleanup cycle required when homeowners are present. This often translates to 20-30% faster completion times.

Consider your household composition - families with young children, elderly members, or anyone with respiratory sensitivities should lean toward temporary relocation. Construction dust, even with containment measures, affects indoor air quality for weeks.

Next steps: Discuss logistics honestly with your contractor during the planning phase. Ask about dust containment measures, work hours, and which utilities will be affected when. For major renovations, budget 10-15% of your project cost for temporary accommodation - it's often worth the investment for your sanity and the project's success. Many Ottawa homeowners find short-term rental apartments or extended-stay hotels more practical than imposing on family for weeks.