Starting a remodel is one of the most exciting times as a homeowner. Whether you’re transforming your kitchen, upgrading a bathroom, or building an ADU, the possibilities are endless. But along with the excitement comes one of the most practical questions: Should you live in your home while the remodel is underway, or should you temporarily move out?

At Coleman Build, we hear this question often. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on your project’s scope, your lifestyle, your budget, and how much disruption you’re comfortable with. To help you decide, we’ve broken down the benefits and drawbacks of both options, as well as tips for making either choice work.

Many homeowners choose to remain in their homes during a remodel, especially if the project is smaller in scale. Here’s why staying put can make sense:

The Case for Staying at Home

Many homeowners choose to remain in their homes during a remodel, especially if the project is smaller in scale. Here’s why staying put can make sense:

1. Cost Savings

Temporary housing costs can add up quickly. A short-term rental, extended hotel stay, or Airbnb in Los Angeles can easily run thousands of dollars per month. Staying at home allows you to invest those dollars into your remodel instead of housing.

2. Daily Oversight

When you live on-site, you can see progress firsthand and have immediate access to your contractor. Small questions and decisions can be answered quickly, which helps keep the project moving smoothly. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing exactly what’s happening in your home.

3. Feasible with Smaller Projects

For remodels that only impact one room—or a space you don’t rely on daily—staying at home is often manageable. Examples include a guest bathroom remodel, bedroom updates, or flooring in sections of your house.

Pro Tip: Designate a “remodel-free zone” in your home. This space should remain clean, dust-free, and comfortable so you and your family have a retreat from the noise and clutter.

While the savings and convenience of being home are appealing, there are real challenges that come with living through construction.

1. Noise and Dust

Construction isn’t quiet. Expect hammering, sawing, drilling, and crews arriving early in the morning. Even with dust barriers and careful cleanup, fine particles can travel into other rooms. If anyone in your household has allergies or works from home, this can be especially tough.

2. Loss of Key Spaces

If your kitchen is being remodeled, you’ll likely lose access to your stove, oven, sink, and even your refrigerator for weeks at a time. Bathroom remodels can be just as inconvenient if it’s your only full bath. Living without these essentials can get frustrating quickly.

3. Safety Concerns

Remodeling zones come with exposed wiring, nails, tools, and debris. If you have young children or pets, safety is a major concern. You’ll need to keep them away from the work area, which can be stressful day after day.

Sometimes the benefits of relocating outweigh the extra costs.

1. Major Renovations

If you’re taking on a full kitchen remodel, gutting multiple rooms, or building an ADU, staying home may not be practical. These projects often require months of work and affect the most essential areas of the house. Moving out ensures you stay comfortable while the remodel progresses.

2. Single-Bathroom Homes

If your home only has one bathroom, it’s almost impossible to remain on-site during a remodel. Even with creative solutions, going weeks without a working bathroom isn’t realistic for most families.

3. Speeding Up the Timeline

When homeowners move out, contractors can often work longer hours without worrying about disturbing daily routines. This can shorten the overall timeline and help you get back into your fully finished space sooner.

Every remodel is unique, so consider these questions to help guide your decision:

• What’s being remodeled? A kitchen or bathroom may be harder to live without than a guest room.
• How long will the project take? A few weeks is easier to manage than several months.
• Do you have alternate spaces? A second bathroom, outdoor cooking setup, or basement can make staying more feasible.
• What’s your budget? Will short-term housing costs cut into the remodel itself?
• What’s your tolerance level? Some families are unfazed by dust and noise, while others find it stressful.

If you stay: Create a temporary kitchen with a microwave, hot plate, and mini fridge. Keep kids and pets away from the work zone. Ask your contractor about daily cleanup practices to reduce dust.

If you move out: Establish strong communication with your contractor. At Coleman Build, we provide regular progress photos, daily updates, and a clear schedule so you always know what’s happening while you’re away.

At Coleman Build, we generally suggest:

• Stay home for smaller projects, like a single bathroom, flooring, or cosmetic updates.
• Move out for large-scale remodels, ADUs, or projects that take away essential spaces for extended periods.

No matter your choice, we’ll help you plan ahead so the process runs smoothly. If you’re staying, we’ll set up temporary solutions to keep life manageable. If you’re moving out, we’ll make sure you’re fully updated and confident in the progress.

The decision to live at home during a remodel comes down to comfort, convenience, and cost. There’s no wrong answer—it’s about what works best for your family and lifestyle. With the right planning and the right contractor, either option can lead to a successful, stress-free remodel.

👉 Thinking about remodeling your home? Coleman Build is here to guide you every step of the way—from planning and permitting to construction and finishing touches. We’ll also help you make the right decision about where to live during your project. Contact us today to start planning with confidence.