Do You Have to Move Out During Restoration?

When staying is usually fine

If the damage is contained to one area, the home has working power, water and heat, and the affected space is not a bathroom or kitchen you depend on, staying is often reasonable. Drying equipment is noisy and the house will be warmer and drier than usual, but the space stays livable.

When staying is usually not recommended

• Contaminated water, such as sewage, is involved.
• Structural damage or safety concerns after a fire or storm.
• Smoke residue and odor throughout the home.
• Mold remediation in an area that cannot be fully contained from living space.
• The only kitchen or bathroom is out of service, or power and heat are affected.

What changes day to day

Even when you stay, expect the house to feel like a job site during the active phases: containment barriers, equipment running around the clock during drying, crews in and out, and rooms that are off limits. Demolition and the early days of drying are usually the most disruptive.

Ask your insurance about additional living expenses

Many homeowners policies include coverage for additional living expenses when a home is not livable during repairs. Whether it applies, and what it covers, depends on your policy and your carrier's determination. Ask early, keep receipts, and get the answer in writing before you book anything long term.

If you stay, a few practical things

• Agree with the crew on which rooms are off limits and how access works.
• Keep children and pets away from containment and equipment.
• Do not turn off drying equipment at night, even though it is loud, because it extends the drying time.
• Ask for a daily update on what is happening the next day.

We tell you what to expect after the inspection

Turning On assesses the damage, explains what the work involves, and documents the conditions for your insurance so you can make the call with real information. Call (425) 772-9467.