Funding Options for Home Modifications Under NDIS

Home modifications can be one of the most life-changing types of support funded through the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme). If you or someone you care for has a disability and finds it difficult to move safely and freely at home, the NDIS may be able to help fund essential changes—making daily living simpler, safer, and more independent.

Below, you’ll find a complete guide to NDIS home modifications: who they’re for, how to get them funded, details on the process, key tips, and answers to common questions.

What Are Home Modifications Under the NDIS?

Home modifications refer to custom changes made to a participant's home environment to enable safe access and increase independence. This could include structural changes and installation of specialist equipment. They’re aimed at helping people with disabilities perform everyday tasks, reduce falls or injuries, and enjoy enhanced quality of life.

Common Examples:

• Installing ramps and rails for wheelchair or walker users
• Widening doorways for accessibility
• Changing bathrooms to be wheelchair-friendly (e.g., roll-in showers, grab rails)
• Lowering kitchen benchtops
• Adjusting lighting, switches, or handles for ease of use

Why Are Home Modifications Important?

Ensuring a person’s home meets their unique support needs can:

• Prevent accidents at home
• Promote independence and dignity for people with disability
• Reduce reliance on daily support workers
• Enable safe access to all areas, reducing risk of isolation within the home
• Improve mental health and family relationships

How to Get NDIS Funding for Home Modifications

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

To access NDIS funding, the participant must:

• Be eligible for the NDIS
• Have mobility or functional needs that cannot be met by other means
• Reside in a property that can be modified (this can include owned, rented, or family-owned homes with necessary permissions)

Step 2: Functional Assessment

A qualified Occupational Therapist (OT), usually with home modification experience, must:

• Assess the participant’s needs
• Conduct a site visit and functional assessment
• Recommend necessary modifications based on safety and independence
• Write a detailed report for the NDIS

Step 3: Cost Quoting and Scope of Works

A licenced builder or building consultant provides:

• Quotes for the recommended home modifications
• Scope of works and breakdown of costs
• Compliance details in line with Australian Regulations and NDIS rules

Step 4: Submit to the NDIS for Approval

The OT report and builder’s quote are sent to the NDIS for review.

• NDIS Criteria: Modifications must be ‘reasonable and necessary.’ The NDIS will consider alternative supports (e.g., assistive technology), long-term benefits, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Approval times vary; average is 6–12 weeks, but complex modifications can take longer.

Step 5: Implementation

• Once approved, funding will appear in the participant’s NDIS plan typically under ‘Capital Supports’ in the Home Modifications line item.
• A registered NDIS home modification provider coordinates and completes the works.
• Quality checks and signoff occur, often with final OT review.

Home Modifications & Australian Migration

NDIS home modifications can affect people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, including new migrants or refugees with disability.

Key Considerations:

• Eligibility: Only Australian citizens or those with a Permanent/Protected Special Category visa are eligible for the NDIS.
• Rental Properties: Tenants require landlord permission; there are legal protections under Australian law to promote inclusivity for disability-related changes, but expectations should be discussed with providers and housing services.
• Community Housing/Public Housing: Approval processes may be longer and governed by additional regulations.

Key Benefits and Features

• Increased Independence: Reduce or eliminate the need for some support services.
• Enhanced Safety: Minimise risk of falls and injury.
• Tailored Solutions: Every modification is based on individual needs.
• Durability and Quality: Funded works must be robust and meet compliance standards.
• Funding Coverage: Includes assessment, design, construction, and post-completion checks.

Common Challenges & Solutions

Challenge 1: Delays in Approval

• Solution: Submit detailed OT reports and builder quotes; follow up with your Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator (LAC).

Challenge 2: Rental or Shared Accommodation

• Solution: Involve the landlord/real estate agent early. Highlight legal requirements (Disability Discrimination Act) and potential for reversibility after tenancy.

Challenge 3: Cost Overruns

• Solution: Work with experienced NDIS-registered builders; request fixed quotes or contingencies; keep clear communication throughout the process.

Challenge 4: Inaccessible Housing Stock

• Solution: Explore the NDIS’ Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) if modifications aren’t feasible.

Common Professions Involved

• Occupational Therapists (OTs): Assess needs, write reports, recommend modifications
• Builders and Building Consultants: Scope, quote, and complete modifications
• Home Modification Project Managers: Oversee larger or complex projects
• Support Coordinators: Guide participants through the process, liaise with providers
• NDIS Planners & Local Area Coordinators (LACs): Approve funding and ensure compliance

FAQs and Scenarios

What types of modifications will the NDIS fund?

• Yes: Ramps, rails, widened doors, accessible bathrooms, kitchen adaptations, lifts.
• No: Regular maintenance, repairs not related to disability, luxury features, non-disability-related changes.

I rent my house. Will NDIS pay for modifications?

• Yes, if you have landlord approval.