Can I Live at Home During a Renovation? Here’s the Honest Truth
It's one of the first questions Melbourne homeowners ask us —
“Can we live here while you renovate?”
And the answer?
Yes… but it depends.
Here’s the real, no-fluff truth about what it’s actually like living at home through a renovation, what to expect, and how Bluestone Build Co helps make it manageable (when it makes sense to stay).
First — What Type of Renovation Are You Doing?
Some renos are stay-worthy. Others? Not a chance.
You can usually stay if:
It’s a bathroom-only reno and you’ve got a second one to use
You’re updating the laundry or ensuite and the rest of the home is untouched
The works are contained to a separate section (like the back or upstairs)
You probably can’t stay if:
You’re renovating the only bathroom
You’re doing a full kitchen + flooring + painting overhaul
There’s structural work, asbestos removal, or no power/water for extended periods
You have young kids, pets, or work from home and need quiet
What Living Through a Renovation Actually Feels Like
Let’s not sugar-coat it. Even the most organised build is still:
Noisy: Drills, saws, hammers — often from 7am.
Dusty: Despite drop sheets and zip walls, it gets everywhere.
Disruptive: Trades will need access. That means early starts, moved furniture, and occasional power/water shutoffs.
If you value peace, routine, and clean floors — staying put will test your patience.
So Why Do People Stay?
1. To save money – Accommodation adds to your reno cost
2. To keep an eye on things – Some feel better being on-site
3. Because they have no other option – Fair enough
But just know:
Saving $3K on Airbnb may cost your sanity.
What We Do Differently at Bluestone
If you decide to stay, we:
Stage the renovation — e.g. do bathrooms one at a time
Isolate work zones using dust barriers and sealable doors
Keep water/power disruptions to a minimum
Give you clear schedules and daily updates
Help you plan temporary setups (e.g. portable cooktops, outdoor showers)
And if it’s not livable, we’ll tell you upfront — no false promises.
Final Word?
Yes, you can live at home during some renovations.
But just because you can doesn’t mean you should.
Let us help you weigh the pros and cons for your exact project.
