If you’re planning an extensive renovation of your home and plan to live in it while the work is carried out, you might be feeling a little apprehensive. It’s not always possible to find alternative accommodation while building work is carried out. Here are some tips to help you cope with living in what will feel like a pile of rubble:
- Plan Ahead
Be prepared for activities such as cooking, space, bathroom facilities and warmth. The more prepared you are for such eventualities, the less stressful you’ll find the whole experience. Knowing the different stages and the timeline of building works will help you plan for times you might not be able to cook or take a shower. Consider how you will keep warm if you are without power and the weather is cold. An in-detail schedule of works and some forward planning are essential.
- Have somewhere to escape to
What might feel like an exciting adventure to begin with can soon become a pain when bad weather or delays occur. If possible, section off an area of the property, even if it’s just one room, where you can retreat from the mess of the building site. Keep this space clean, tidy and warm and have it as your special calm place.
- Use the garage
If you have a garage and are planning extensive renovations or even a new build – consider setting up the garage as your temporary accommodation. Other popular alternatives include using a garden room, outbuilding or caravan. Garden rooms are often delivered in a kit, are easily to assemble and can be used after the building work for a useful home office or man cave. Have a good clear out in advance to make lots of room for temporary living. Consider using Skip Hire Swansea at http://pendragoncarmarthenshire.co.uk/
- Power and Water
Our basic needs include access to electricity and water. Ensure you have your needs met by planning in advance for connections to gas/electricity, water, telephone and internet.
- A Back-up Plan
Arrange an emergency plan with nearby family or friends that you could stay with for a couple of nights if something goes wrong, such as terrible weather. If this isn’t possible, then consider a local economy hotel or even spending a few hours in a local café can be a lifesaver.
When you decide to continue living on site, here are some of the things you can expect:
- It will get really cold when you have no power, missing windows, no proper flooring or doors for example. Aim to have this kind of work completed during the summer.
- You’ll get wet. There will be some time when the property isn’t weathertight, especially if there’s re-roofing involved.
- You won’t want to invite anyone over so don’t make any social plans.
- Mud and dirt will get absolutely everywhere, no matter how much you clean.
- Progress will be slower as work must be carried out around your needs.
- There will be times when you must cope with no running water and no power.
