Over 1 million Britons have seen their dream renovation go sour(Image: Getty Images/Tetra images RF)

1.2 million Britons are living on 'building sites' due to delayed home renovations

Some people are also living in caravans and temporary accommodation thanks to projects on hold, according to new research carried out by Direct Line Home Insurance

10 Oct 2024, 21:37 by Natasha Wynarczyk · The Mirror

Over 1 million UK homeowners are currently living on "building sites" due to stalled renovation projects.

New research has found 1.2m have seen their dream project turn to a nightmare thanks to delays. A quarter of people living in a 'building' site have been doing this for over two years, while 49% of these homeowners worry that the incomplete work is dangerous or could cause injury for those living in the property.

Meanwhile, 26% of those with delayed projects are living in a caravan or temporary accommodation because their home is uninhabitable. Two thirds of respondents to the poll said they purchased their property with the intention of renovating it, but 58% with stalled projects say they now regret ever starting.

A quarter of people have been living in their unfinished homes for two years( Image: Getty Images)

Three quarters say they have found the experience overwhelming, with two thirds saying it has led to significant stress. The research, by Direct Line Home Insurance found 31% of people had to put their renovations on hold due to money issues - and one in 10 are unsure if their home will ever be finished.

Over a fifth, 22%, said they had either fired their builder or that tradespeople had walked off the job. Running out of enthusiasm was the reason for another 22% of stalled projects, while 17% said once they started renovating they unearthed bigger problems that needed to be fixed before moving onto the next phase.

Money issues are also a reason for delays to renovations( Image: Getty Images)

Dan Simson, head of Direct Line home insurance said: “With many homeowners looking for ways to adapt their houses to fit their changing circumstances, it is no surprise that many decide to take on a renovation project. Living with unfinished renovations and building work can be stressful, especially if this results in needing to move into temporary accommodation while the project is being completed."

Mr Simson advises that those looking to start a renovation project should speak with their home insurance provider before work begins to let them know what the plans are, in case it has an impact on their cover.