Should I Move Out During A Remodel? Here's the Honest Answer
- Phil Nicolosi
- Jul 14
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 14
At Rejuve Group, we get this question all the time:
“Should I move out during a remodel?”
It’s one of the biggest concerns homeowners have, and understandably so. Moving out means disrupting routines, possibly renting a short-term place, and figuring out logistics for pets, kids, and work life.
So let’s be honest: Yes, you can remodel without moving out… but that doesn’t always mean you should.
Preliminary Considerations during a Remodel 🤔
It depends on the scope, layout, and complexity of your project. Some families manage just fine. Others find that constant noise, dust, and daily workarounds stretch their patience and schedules.
We’ve even completed a second-story addition for a family of five, including a pregnant mom, while they stayed in the home. We chopped the roof off the garage and part of the kitchen, relocated major systems, and coordinated the loudest, dustiest phases during their weekend trips. It wasn’t easy-but we got it done.
So yes-it’s possible. But the better question is whether it’s worth the disruption.
What to Expect if You Stay 🔨
Even with the cleanest job site and friendliest crew, staying put means:
Early morning noise (we’re talking saws by 7:30 a.m.)
Dust and debris, even with barriers
Shuffling furniture, sealing rooms, avoiding active zones
Safety issues for kids, pets, or WFH life
We’ll keep it as clean and contained as humanly possible-but you’ll feel it.
Utilities in Motion = Major Downtime ⚠️
If we’re relocating major systems like HVAC, electrical, and plumbing-you might be without power, hot water, or A/C for days… maybe even weeks.
That’s not exactly cozy.
Staying Can Slow Things Down 🐢💸
When you’re home, we have to remodel in stages-dodging occupied rooms, adjusting schedules, and sealing off spaces. That leads to:
“Let’s open this wall and check… oh wait, that’s in your bedroom. Never mind.”
The more we pause or reroute, the more time and labor it takes.
Hidden Costs That Creep In 💸
Staying might feel more affordable, but don’t forget:
Makeshift kitchens + storage workarounds
Eating out more 🍕🥡
Added labor for cleanup + protection
Longer timeline = higher labor costs
When It Is Manageable 🙌
Some projects are fine to live through-especially if:
You have multiple bathrooms
The addition is isolated and doesn’t need early utility tie-ins
If it’s realistic, we’ll help you stay and keep it smooth.
And If You Shouldn’t Stay? We’ve Got You 🧳
We don’t just recommend moving out-we help make it happen. We’ll connect you with short-term rentals (including pet-friendly options) and schedule the work to minimize your time away.
Should I Move Out During a Remodel? The Bottom Line ✔️
Yes, you can have a home renovation without moving out. We’ve done it-roof removal, major system relocations and all.
If staying means stress, delay, or added cost, we’ll help you weigh the options-and support you either way.
Wondering what makes the most sense for your home remodel?
Let’s talk. Book a consultation and we’ll walk you through it-clearly, honestly, and on your terms.
