Equipment and assistive technology
Home modifications under the NDIS: what's possible and who approves it
Home modifications — changes like ramps, bathroom modifications, widened doorways or stairlifts — are generally funded under the NDIS as Capital Supports, following an assessment by an occupational therapist. Because these changes are usually permanent and often involve a landlord or property owner, the approval process tends to be more thorough than for smaller equipment items.
It's worth approaching this process with realistic expectations about time: home modifications are rarely quick, partly because of the assessment itself and partly because of the practical logistics of arranging building work.
It's also worth knowing there's usually a distinction between minor and complex modifications. A simple grab rail or ramp might be relatively straightforward to approve and install, while a full bathroom rebuild or a home lift is a much longer process, involving multiple quotes, detailed drawings and, in some cases, council approval alongside the NDIA's own review.
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What's typically included
- Ramps and level-entry access, from a single step to a full entryway rebuild
- Bathroom modifications, such as walk-in showers, grab rails or a lowered vanity
- Widened doorways and hallways, to allow wheelchair or walker access throughout the home
- Stairlifts or other vertical access solutions for multi-level homes
- Kitchen modifications, in some circumstances, such as lowered benchtops or accessible storage
The general process
An OT assessment identifies the specific modification needed based on the person's function and the physical layout of the home. For renters, landlord consent is typically required before work can proceed — this is worth raising with the landlord as early as possible, since it can be one of the slower parts of the process.
Once approved, a licensed builder or specialist contractor carries out the work, usually following the specifications set out in the assessment. It's reasonable to ask for a written quote and timeline before work begins, and to confirm exactly what's covered by NDIS funding versus what might be an out-of-pocket cost.
What to consider before starting the process
It helps to think beyond the immediate need to how the home might be used over the next few years, since modifications are generally not something done repeatedly. Raising this with the assessing OT — for example, if a condition is likely to progress — can lead to a more future-proofed outcome from the same modification.
If you rent, it's worth having an honest, early conversation with your landlord or property manager about what's being proposed, since their cooperation is often the deciding factor in how smoothly this process goes.
What this can look like day to day
For a Western Sydney family in a rented home, this process might start with an OT visit to assess the bathroom, followed by weeks of back-and-forth between the OT, the landlord and the NDIA before work is even scheduled. It's genuinely reasonable to feel frustrated by how long this can take, particularly when the need feels urgent and immediate.
In the meantime, it's worth asking a support provider whether daily living or domestic support can help bridge the gap safely — for example, providing physical assistance with a task that will eventually be made easier by the modification, until it's actually complete. This isn't a substitute for the modification itself, but it can reduce day-to-day risk while the process plays out.
It's also worth checking in with the OT about any interim safety measures that don't require full building work — a temporary non-slip mat, a portable rail, or a small furniture rearrangement, for example — while waiting for a full modification to be approved and completed.
A practical next step
Valencea doesn't carry out or approve home modifications, but if you're navigating this process in Western Sydney and want support with daily living or domestic tasks in the meantime, we're happy to talk it through. Call 0494 733 201, Monday to Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm.
FAQ
Do I need landlord approval for home modifications?
Generally yes, if you rent — this is often one of the more time-consuming parts of the process, so it's worth raising early.
Who decides what modification is needed?
An occupational therapist assesses the person's needs and the home's layout, then recommends the specific modification.
How long does the process usually take?
It varies considerably depending on the assessment, landlord consent (if renting) and contractor availability — ask the assessing OT for a realistic estimate for your situation.
Ready to talk it through?
Get in touch and our team will help you work out what's genuinely possible for your plan.
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About Valencea
People First. Always.
Valencea is an NDIS support provider built on a simple belief: every person deserves to live a life of choice, dignity and connection. Our team works alongside participants, families and carers to deliver support that fits real lives — not the other way around.
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