Home Modification

Home modifications are essential to your home to ensure accessibility, safety, and comfort for individuals with disabilities. These changes empower participants to navigate their living spaces independently and fulfil their goals. Whether a simple adjustment or a complex renovation, NDIS home modifications are tailored to meet specific disability needs.

What Are NDIS Home Modifications?

NDIS defines home modifications as changes to a participant’s home’s structure, layout, or fittings to enhance safe access and mobility. These modifications may include adjustments to bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, and other frequently used areas. They fall under the Capital Supports budget of an NDIS plan and aim to:

What Are NDIS Home Modifications?

NDIS defines home modifications as changes to a participant’s home’s structure, layout, or fittings to enhance safe access and mobility. These modifications may include adjustments to bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, and other frequently used areas. They fall under the Capital Supports budget of an NDIS plan and aim to:

Types of Home Modifications

Simple Home Modifications

These low-cost, minor adjustments (e.g., grab rails, anti-slip mats) do not require professional builders. Most cost under $1,500 and do not require a quote.

Minor Home Modifications (MHM)

These involve non-structural changes costing up to $20,000. They are categorized as: Category A: Changes under $10,000. Category B: Changes between $10,000 and $20,000 or modifications involving bathroom floors. Minor home modifications require an assessment by a qualified occupational therapist.

Complex Home Modifications (CHM)

Structural changes costing over $20,000 often involve multiple home areas. For projects over $30,000, hiring an NDIS-registered Building Works Project Manager (BWPM) is mandatory. CHMs require input from building professionals and occupational therapists to create effective solutions.

Simple Home Modifications

These low-cost, minor adjustments (e.g., grab rails, anti-slip mats) do not require professional builders. Most cost under $1,500 and do not require a quote.

Minor Home Modifications (MHM)

These involve non-structural changes costing up to $20,000. They are categorized as: Category A: Changes under $10,000. Category B: Changes between $10,000 and $20,000 or modifications involving bathroom floors. Minor home modifications require an assessment by a qualified occupational therapist.

Complex Home Modifications (CHM)

Structural changes costing over $20,000 often involve multiple home areas. For projects over $30,000, hiring an NDIS-registered Building Works Project Manager (BWPM) is mandatory. CHMs require input from building professionals and occupational therapists to create effective solutions.

Common Areas for Home Modifications

Entrance and Dwelling Access

  • Access Ramps: Replace stairs with slip-resistant ramps for wheelchair users.
  • Pathways: Smooth, slip-resistant paths leading to accessible doorways.
  • Platform Lifts: For elevations over 1,000mm, vertical lifts may be used instead of ramps.

Bathroom Modifications

  • Step-less showers with grab rails and slip-resistant floors.
  • Raised toilet seats and repositioned toilets for ease of use.
  • Accessible hand basins with lever or mixer taps.

Bedroom Modifications

  • Space adjustments for wheelchairs or hoist installations.
  • Ceiling hoist lifts or mobile hoists for bed transfers.
  • Backup power outlets for life-sustaining equipment.

Kitchen Modifications

  • Lowered benches, cabinets, and sinks for wheelchair access.
  • Roll-out shelves and mobile workbenches for accessibility.
  • Easy-reach kitchen appliances to encourage independence.

Internal Dwelling Access

  • Widened doorways and adjusted flooring to eliminate barriers.
  • Stair climbers or platform lifts for multi-level homes.

Home Automation

  • Automated lighting, doors, and climate control systems.
  • Voice-activated emergency systems for enhanced safety.

Steps to Secure NDIS Funding for Home Modifications

  1. Assessment by an Occupational Therapist:
    A qualified professional will evaluate your needs and recommend suitable modifications. This assessment is mandatory for NDIS approval.

  2. Submission of Quotes:
    For modifications over $1,500, you’ll need up to two quotes from NDIS-approved providers. Ensure the quotes align with NDIS guidelines.

  3. Approval Process:
    NDIA assesses the request to ensure the changes are reasonable and necessary. Approved modifications must:

    • Relate directly to your disability.
    • Support your personal goals and independence.
    • Offer value for money and long-term benefits.
  4. Project Execution:
    Engage NDIS-registered builders and project managers for complex projects. Service agreements should outline responsibilities and protect your intellectual property rights.

  5. Post-Modification Certification:
    After completion, a professional will certify the modifications to ensure compliance with your goals and safety requirements.

What NDIS Home Modifications Do Not Cover​

NDIS will not fund:

  • Luxury upgrades (e.g., polished stone finishes).
  • General home repairs unrelated to disability needs.
  • Additional rooms or extensive multi-floor modifications.
  • Hydrotherapy pools or spas.
  • Non-compliant building works.

Participants can opt for higher-grade materials or finishes at their own expense.

FAQs

A modification must directly relate to your disability, support your goals, and provide value for money. It must also align with NDIS guidelines.

Yes, but they must be NDIS-registered for modifications exceeding $30,000. Always review service agreements to ensure your rights are protected.

NDIS may fund short-term rent if you need to vacate your home during extensive building works.

Yes, but you’ll need to cover the cost difference between standard NDIS-funded materials and your chosen upgrades.

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of the modification and the submission of required documentation, including quotes and assessments.

For minor modifications under $20,000, a single quote is generally sufficient. Complex projects may require up to two quotes.

If your request is not approved, you can appeal the decision through the NDIS review process or consult legal services for assistance.

Get in touch

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At Blue Wing Care, we don’t just provide NDIS services—we’re your dedicated partner, making the NDIS simple and tailored to your needs.

Our team knows the NDIS can be complex, but with our guidance, you’ll feel confident and in control. We’re here to help you make the most of your plan and live the life you deserve.

At Blue Wing Care, it’s all about you—because your needs come first.

Why choose the Blue Wing team?

At Blue Wing we have a strategic recruitment process that ensures we hire the very best carers for our clients.

In addition to relevant training and experience, we seek genuinely caring and positive personalities who can brighten their client’s day.

For your peace of mind, every Blue Wing team member also completes or holds the following:

NDIS Worker Clearance

Providing assurance that the Blue Wing team is approved to deliver support or services under the NDIS.

Working with Children Check

This requirement provides reassurance that the worker has no workplace misconduct or criminal history of concern.

NDIS Worker Orientation Module

A course that helps NDIS workers to understand their care obligations and better support people with disability.

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