Porta Potty Rental for Home Renovation: What You Need to Know

So you're finally tackling that bathroom renovation you've been putting off. Exciting! But here's a question that might not have crossed your mind yet: what happens when your only bathroom is torn apart for two weeks?

This is where renting a porta potty saves the day. It might feel a little strange to have one in your driveway, but trust me - it beats the alternatives. Let's talk about why it makes sense, what it costs, and how to make it work smoothly.

Why Rent a Porta Potty for a Home Renovation?

When your bathroom is out of commission, you have a few options:

• Use a neighbor's bathroom - Awkward, and gets old fast
• Go to a nearby store or gym - Fine during the day, terrible at 3 AM
• Stay in a hotel - Expensive and disruptive
• Rent a porta potty - Available 24/7, right outside your door

For renovations lasting more than a few days, a porta potty is usually the most practical choice. It's there whenever you need it, and you don't have to impose on anyone else.

What Does It Cost?

Here's the good news: renting a porta potty for home use is surprisingly affordable.

Compare that to a hotel room at $100+ per night, and renting a porta potty starts looking like a bargain. Plus, you get to stay in your own home and keep an eye on your renovation.

What Type Should You Get?

For a home renovation, you have a couple of good options:

Standard Unit

Your basic porta potty with hand sanitizer. It gets the job done, and it's the most affordable option. Perfectly fine for a short renovation where you still have running water inside for hand washing.

Deluxe Unit with Hand Wash Sink

If your renovation affects your kitchen sink too, or you just want the convenience, go for a unit with a built-in hand wash station. It has a foot pump or hands-free faucet with fresh water and soap. Worth the extra $50-75 per month for most people.

Flushable Unit

Some companies offer units with flushing capability and a more "indoor bathroom" feel. They cost more and require water hookup, but if you're doing a long renovation (6+ weeks), the comfort upgrade might be worth it.

Where to Put It

Placement matters for convenience and your neighbors' sanity:

• Driveway - The most common spot. Easy to access, level surface, and simple for the service truck to reach.
• Side yard - Good if you want it less visible from the street. Just make sure there's a clear path from your house.
• Backyard - Works if you have access, but service trucks need to reach it too.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Keep it within a reasonable walk from your back door (you'll be using it at night)
• Make sure it's on level ground
• Check if your HOA has rules about temporary structures
• Be considerate of neighbors - don't place it right against their fence

How Long Will You Need It?

This depends on your project, but here are some typical timelines:

Add a buffer - renovations almost always take longer than planned. Most rental companies are flexible about extending if needed.

What About Servicing?

Your rental includes regular servicing - typically once a week for residential use. The service tech will:

• Pump out the waste tank
• Clean and sanitize the interior
• Restock toilet paper and hand sanitizer
• Check for any issues

For a typical family, weekly service is plenty. If you have a large household or guests staying over, you might want to ask about twice-weekly service.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

A few things that'll make life easier:

• Add lighting - A motion-sensor light near the unit is a game-changer for nighttime trips
• Create a path - If it's on grass, lay down some stepping stones or a mat
• Stock extras - Keep extra toilet paper inside (in a waterproof container)
• Communicate with your contractor - Make sure workers know it's available for them too
• Give neighbors a heads up - A quick "hey, we're renovating and need this temporarily" goes a long way

Alternatives to Consider

If a porta potty really doesn't work for your situation, here are some other options:

• Portable camping toilet - Cheaper but requires you to empty it yourself (not fun)
• Staying with family - If they're nearby and don't mind house guests
• Phased renovation - Some contractors can keep your bathroom partially functional during the project

For most people, renting a porta potty is still the simplest solution.