Home Modifications and the NDIS: What You Need to Know

Your home should be a place of safety, comfort, and independence. If you’re an NDIS participant with physical limitations or accessibility challenges, home modifications might be a key support to help you live more independently.

In this guide, we explain home modifications, what the NDIS covers, how to apply, and how your support coordinator can help you navigate the process.

What Are Home Modifications?

Home modifications are changes to your home environment that make it safer and easier to move around, complete daily tasks, and participate in your community. These changes are tailored to your disability-related needs and must be reasonable and necessary under the NDIS Act 2013.



Examples include:

• Installing ramps, handrails, or grab bars
  
• Widening doorways for wheelchair access
  
• Modifying bathrooms (e.g., adding a roll-in shower or accessible toilet)
  
• Adjusting kitchen layouts to improve access
  
• Adding stair lifts or ceiling hoists
  
• Structural changes to allow environmental control systems (e.g., smart home features)



What Will the NDIS Fund?

The NDIS may fund home modifications if they meet all the following criteria:



1. They are related to your disability

The modification must be necessary because of your disability, not for general improvements.



2. They are reasonable and necessary

This means the change is cost-effective, safe, and improves your independence and safety.



3. The property is suitable for modification

The NDIA will assess whether the home is structurally sound and whether you will likely remain there for a reasonable period.



Categories of Support Funded:

All modifications must be supported by a qualified Occupational Therapist (OT) report and quotes from appropriately registered or licensed builders.



Required Assessment Templates

Using the correct NDIA home modification assessment template ensures all necessary information is provided to avoid delays with approvals.

• Minor Home Modifications Assessment Template (DOCX, 106KB)
  
• Complex Home Modifications Assessment Template (DOCX, 105KB)
  
  

These templates include a participant consent section, which authorises the NDIA to speak directly with providers—this is highly recommended to speed up the process.

You can also refer to the NDIS Home Modifications Classifications Table (DOCX, 45KB) to understand what is considered minor versus complex.

What’s Not Covered by the NDIS?

The NDIS does not fund:

• Modifications for aesthetic or non-disability reasons
  
• Landlord obligations in rental properties
  
• Luxury upgrades (e.g., high-end materials or designer finishes)
  
• Routine maintenance or repairs not related to accessibility
  
• Costs for purchasing or relocating to a new home



Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for home modification funding:

• You must be an active NDIS participant with functional limitations that affect daily living at home
  
• You must have an OT assessment that clearly states the need for modifications
  
• The property must be structurally suitable for modification
  
• If you're renting, the landlord must give written consent
  
  

In rental situations, the NDIA may consider temporary or portable modifications when structural changes aren’t practical.



How to Apply for Home Modifications Through the NDIS

Step 1: Speak With Your Support Coordinator

They’ll help determine if home modifications are the right option and connect you with a qualified Occupational Therapist.



Step 2: Get an OT Assessment

The OT will:

• Visit your home
  
• Assess your current challenges and safety risks
  
• Recommend appropriate modifications
  
  

Provide a formal Home Modifications Assessment Report



Step 3: Obtain Builder Quotes

You’ll need one or more quotes, depending on the scope and value of the work, from experienced and qualified builders.



Step 4: Submit Evidence to the NDIA

Your support coordinator will help you submit:

• The OT report
  
• Builder quotes
  
• Proof of ownership or written landlord consent
  
• Any other relevant documents (e.g., risk assessments)

Step 5: Await NDIA Approval

If approved, the funding will be included under Capital Supports > Home Modifications in your plan. Licensed and appropriately qualified professionals must carry out all works.



How Your Support Coordinator Helps

A support coordinator can guide you through every step of the process by:

• Coordinating your assessments and quotes
  
• Communicating with OTs, builders, and the NDIA
  
• Submitting paperwork and ensuring it meets all requirements
  
• Helping you understand timelines, funding limits, and what to expect
  
• Minimising delays and reducing stress—especially for complex or urgent requests

Final Thoughts

Home modifications are more than just structural changes—they’re about dignity, safety, and long-term independence. Whether it’s a simple grab rail or a full bathroom redesign, the NDIS can fund modifications that help people stay at home with confidence and ease.

If you think you may be eligible, or you're unsure where to start, speak with your support coordinator. With the right guidance, your home can be transformed to suit your needs now and into the future.



Need Help Coordinating Home Modifications and Other Supports?

Coordinating support can be a full-time job. If you would like assistance engaging with support that aligns with your NDIS goals, you can request Support Coordination.

This service’s cost is not out-of-pocket—it’s funded from a dedicated Support Coordination category. It does not affect your Core or other Capacity Building supports like therapy, employment, or transport.

If you already have Support Coordination in your plan and live in Melbourne, Victoria, and need a reliable, experienced partner to help coordinate your supports:

Contact us at Hand in Hand Support Coordination



We work alongside you to turn your NDIS plan into real-world outcomes that support your independence, wellbeing, and goals.