“When Worker Is Renovating My House, They Cannot Use My Toilet” Sparks Debate Online

Recently, a simple Facebook post ignited a heated debate in the comments section . The question was whether homeowners should let workers renovating their homes use their toilets. Or, should they enforce a “no toilet” rule until the renovation is done.

Here is the extract of the Facebook post

A recent post online said: if you are renovating your house / bathroom, and you are replacing your toilet bowl, you should install the new toilet bowl as the LAST item.

The reason? If you install the toilet last, then you will be sure that the worker didn't use it first. After all, it's your brand new toilet bowl, and it's a personal thing. Nobody else should get to "dirty" it before you.

In fact, the post goes on to say that you should tell your interior designer to enforce this rule with the subcontractors.

I find this a bit hostile. The poor workers are trying to renovate a beautiful home for you, and you don't even let them relieve themselves there? Where else do you expect them to go? They are trying to do their jobs, and have to spend 8 hours in a dusty, debris-filled home. And now they have to abide by your "don't use my toilet" rule.

As a responsible homeowner, such a rule seems unnecessary. In fact, it might be better for the workers to be able to use your facilities, so if anything does not work, they will be the first to know.

What do you think about such a rule? Are you in support of it, or against it? What rules would you have for workers renovating your home

The post ended by asking people whether they were in support of it, or against it. And boy was there a lot of debate. From homeowners and contractors alike.

The case for allowing toilet use during renovations

Many people in the comments felt it’s only fair to allow workers access to the loo during renovations. For instance, Faizah Ahmad highlighted the importance of having a clean, working toilet when the renovation is finished. It’s pretty logical; after all, if you want things to be in tip-top shape, a functioning bathroom is key.

Larry L. Jordan kept it light-hearted, pointing out that some family members might even be less hygienic than workers. And Paul Goh simply said, “Hey, we use public toilets all the time, don’t we?”

Jes Min Lua felt for the workers, suggesting the rule might be a tad harsh. Andrew Sivaram agreed, saying it’s tough to deny a worker access to the toilet.

The case against allowing toilet use

On the flip side, some homeowners supported the idea of keeping the toilet off-limits during renovations. Che Kim Noi admitted it made her feel uneasy but was kind enough to let workers use the guest toilet. Kok Leong, a contractor himself, said this was a recurring issue and suggested talking to the homeowner about using the guest toilet. If that was not allowed, then he would consider renting a toilet. If the toilet was a real dealbreaker for the owner, then he would agree to leave the installation of the new toilet until the end of the renovation.

Soeun Koun, a professional cleaner, had her reservations, citing concerns about contractors not keeping the toilet clean whenever she was called in for post-renovation cleaning jobs. Kah Lyn also experienced the negative aftermath of a worker’s questionable toilet habits.

The debate shows that homeowners and workers sometimes have different perspectives. To find a middle ground, here are some ways that homeowners and workers can sort it out before any misunderstanding occurs:

• Ask First: Homeowners and contractors should discuss their preferences and concerns about toilet use before the renovation begins
• Assigned Toilets: Designate specific toilets for worker use to keep the main bathrooms clean. Many homeowners suggested designating the guest toilet, or yard toilet as the one reserved for workmen
• Hygiene Rules: Make sure contractors understand the importance of cleanliness when using homeowners’ toilets
• Portable Loos: This is rare, but some homeowners can consider renting portable loos for workers during major renovations, so their private bathrooms remain untouched
• Include Post-Renovation Cleaning into the Agreement: A responsible renovation contractor can provide post-renovation cleaning before handing back the property to the homeowner

The debate over toilet use during home renovations may seem trivial, but it highlights the need for clear communication and respect between homeowners and workers. While some folks emphasise their personal space’s sanctity, it’s equally crucial to consider the practical needs of the workers. By setting clear rules and keeping the conversation flowing, both sides can navigate this issue smoothly, ensuring that the final result is a beautifully renovated home without any unnecessary disputes.

PS: Here are Malaysia’s best and most reliable renovation firms that will manage your project with care