NDISFinder.com is committed to supporting both people with disability, their families, and providers to deliver the best possible experiences through the NDIS. This detailed home modifications guide is crafted for NDIS providers and those supporting continuity of care for NDIS participants. Here you’ll find everything you need to understand the process, responsibilities, and best practices for NDIS home modifications in Australia.

NDIS Home Modifications Guide for Providers

What Are NDIS Home Modifications?

Home modifications under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) are structural changes made to a participant's home to enhance safety, accessibility, and independence. They are designed to help people with disability undertake daily activities, improve quality of life, and enable them to remain in their home rather than moving to a care facility. NDIS-funded home modifications typically address barriers that prevent individuals from participating in daily tasks such as bathing, entering/exiting the home, or moving freely through their living space.

Examples of Home Modifications

• Installing ramps and handrails
• Widening doorways or hallways
• Bathroom modifications (e.g. accessible showers, grab rails)
• Kitchen adjustments (lowering benches, lever taps)
• Automatic door openers
• Non-slip flooring improvements
• Lifting devices (ceiling hoists)

Why Are Home Modifications Important?

Home modifications are crucial for:

• Promoting independence, dignity, and autonomy for NDIS participants.
• Reducing risk of injuries or accidents at home.
• Minimising the need for ongoing personal care, leading to cost savings.
• Improving participation in family/community life.
• Supporting carers by making the environment more workable.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), over 35% of people with disability report having difficulty with self-care or household tasks—home modifications directly address such barriers.

The Home Modification Process: How It Works

1. Assessment and Planning

• Eligibility: Not all NDIS participants are eligible for home modifications. Funding is provided where an occupational therapist (OT) recommends modifications necessary for functional needs, and when considered "reasonable and necessary" by the NDIS.
• Assessment: A suitably qualified OT assesses the participant’s current and future needs, living environment, and any risks involved.
• Scope of Works: The OT collaborates with the participant and/or their family to draft a “scope of works,” outlining recommended modifications.

2. Obtaining NDIS Approval

• The OT’s assessment and scope of works are submitted to the NDIS, typically with supporting quotations from licensed builders.
• The NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) reviews the recommendations and determines funding based on necessity and value for money.
• Quoting and tendering may be required for modifications over $30,000.

3. Provider Engagement

• Once approved, approved NDIS-registered builders or tradespeople can be engaged.
• Providers (including support coordinators and allied health professionals) should have experience in disability home modifications and comply with relevant Australian Standards (AS 1428.1).

4. Implementation

• All work must comply with local government regulations, building codes, and health/safety requirements.
• A final OT review or sign-off is often required to ensure the modifications meet the participant’s needs.

5. Post-Modification Support

• Adjustment period for participant (education on using new features).
• Maintenance planning and possible future upgrades.

Home Modifications and Australian Migration

Many NDIS participants come from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, including migrants and refugees. Understanding migration-related factors is essential:

• NDIS does not restrict funding based on migration status, but permanent residency or particular visas are required for NDIS eligibility.
• Some newly arrived participants may live in rented or public housing; additional consent is required from landlords or housing authorities for modifications.
• Providers should offer clear, accessible information in multiple languages.

Key Benefits and Features for Providers & Participants

For Participants

• Live safely and independently in their own home.
• Reduce reliance on paid or unpaid care.
• Participate fully in community and family life.

For Providers

• Opportunity to deliver life-changing support services.
• Enhance your service offerings, especially in coordination with allied health professionals.
• Grow your business reputation within the disability support sector.

Features

• Customised Solutions: Each modification is tailored to the participant’s needs.
• Regulatory Compliance: All works follow NDIS guidelines and Australian Standards.
• Funding Security: NDIS funding ensures providers are paid for approved works.

Common Challenges and Solutions

1. Delayed Approvals

• Challenge: Approval or funding delays can leave participants waiting for essential modifications.
• Solution: Ensure all documentation is thorough and correct; use experienced OTs and support coordinators to streamline submissions.

2. Tenancy and Landlord Permissions

• Challenge: Difficulty obtaining approval from landlords, especially in rental or public housing situations.
• Solution: Providers can assist by offering template letters, legal explanations, or negotiating with property managers.

3. Managing Expectations

• Challenge: Participants may request modifications beyond what is considered “reasonable and necessary.”
• Solution: Clear, early communication about what the NDIS can fund, and what may be considered standard home maintenance.

4. Service Coordination

• Challenge: Coordination between health professionals, builders, and the participant can be complex.
• Solution: Use experienced support coordinators and service agreements to clarify roles and timelines.

Professionals Involved

• Occupational Therapists (OTs): Assess function, recommend and design modifications.
• Builders/Tradespeople: Perform the actual construction; must be licensed and preferably NDIS-registered.
• Support Coordinators: Assist with navigating the NDIS process and managing communications.
• Allied Health Professionals: Physiotherap