NDIS Home Modifications: A Complete Guide for Adelaide Participants

If your disability makes it hard to get around or use parts of your home safely, the NDIS may fund home modifications to help. This guide explains how NDIS home modifications work, what the NDIS looks for, and how NovitaTech supports participants across Adelaide from the first assessment to the finished job.

What are NDIS home modifications?

Home modifications are changes to the structure, layout or fittings of your home that help you live more safely and independently. Common examples include:

• Grab rails and handrails
• Ramps and step-free entries
• Accessible bathrooms and step-free showers
• Kitchen modifications, such as lowered or height-adjustable benches
• Doorway widening
• Ceiling hoists
• Automatic doors and home automation

The NDIS funds modifications that relate to your disability, help you pursue the goals in your plan, and are considered reasonable and necessary.

Minor vs complex home modifications

The NDIS groups home modifications by cost and complexity. As a general guide:

Thresholds and requirements are set by the NDIA and can change, so check the latest NDIS home modifications guideline or ask our team.

The NDIS home modification process, step by step

1. Talk to your planner or support coordinator about home modifications and your goals.
2. Get an OT assessment. An occupational therapist visits your home, identifies barriers and recommends modifications. NovitaTech’s own OTs can do this for you.
3. Scope of works and quotes. The recommendations are turned into a scope of works, and quotes are obtained.
4. Submit for approval. The OT report and quotes go to the NDIA for a funding decision.
5. Works begin. Once approved, the modification is built or installed.
6. Handover. The work is checked against your needs and you’re shown how everything works.

Tips for a smoother NDIS home modification

• Link it to your goals. Explain clearly how the modification helps you do things you currently can’t, or can’t do safely.
• Think ahead. Good assessments consider how your needs might change.
• Get owner permission early if you rent.
• Use one coordinated team. Having the OT, project manager and trades in one organisation reduces delays and back-and-forth.

How NovitaTech helps with NDIS home modifications

• In-house occupational therapists for assessments, reports and scopes of works
• Minor modifications quoted, supplied and installed by our own team
• Complex works managed with licensed builders, including qualified Building Works Project Managers
• Quotes and documentation to support your NDIS funding request
• NDIS registered provider, working with self-managed, plan-managed and NDIA-managed participants

Find out more about our home modifications service in Adelaide.

Frequently asked questions

Does the NDIS pay for home modifications?

Yes, if the modifications relate to your disability, support your plan goals and are reasonable and necessary.

Do I need an OT report?

Yes. The NDIS generally needs an occupational therapist’s assessment and recommendations for home modifications.

How long do NDIS home modifications take?

It varies. Minor works can be done soon after approval. Complex works take longer because of design, approval and building timelines.

Can the NDIS fund modifications to a rental property?

It can, but you’ll need the owner’s written permission, and removable or less invasive options may be preferred.

Can you work with my existing OT?

Yes. We’re happy to work from your OT’s recommendations, or our OTs can complete the assessment.

This article is general information. Check the latest NDIS guidelines or talk to your planner about your situation.