Minor Home Modifications in Your NDIS Plan?

Minor Home Modifications in Your NDIS Plan?
Minor Home Modifications in Your NDIS Plan? - Build Crew

Minor Home Modifications in Your NDIS Plan?

For individuals with disabilities, minor home modifications can make a significant difference in improving accessibility and safety at home. Under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), participants may receive funding for these essential changes. But how do you get minor home modifications included in your NDIS plan? Let’s explore the process, the assessments required, and how Build Crew can help with your home modification needs.

What Are Minor Home Modifications?

Minor home modifications are changes to a home that do not require extensive structural alterations and typically cost up to $20,000. These modifications can range from installing grab rails or ramps to widening doorways or adjusting bathroom fixtures. Minor home modifications are designed to help NDIS participants safely access and use areas of their home, promoting greater independence and mobility.

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Evidence Required for NDIS Funding

Before minor home modifications can be included in your NDIS plan, you need to provide evidence that supports the need for these changes and proves they meet the NDIS funding criteria. Additionally, you must obtain relevant approvals, especially if you are renting or living in a property where permission from the landlord or property owner is required.

Key Steps to Get Minor Home Modifications Approved:

  • Assessment by an Occupational Therapist (or a home modification assessor for more complex cases).
  • Written permission from your landlord or property owner, if applicable.
  • Submission of evidence and documentation to the NDIS.

Do You Need an Assessment for Minor Home Modifications?

Yes, an assessment is required for all minor home modifications under the NDIS. The type of provider who conducts this assessment depends on the category of the modifications you need.

  • Category A Minor Home Modifications: For simple and low-risk modifications, any occupational therapist, including your usual OT, can carry out the assessment. These modifications typically involve straightforward changes like installing grab rails or adjusting fixtures. The assessment process is streamlined for this category.

  • Category B Minor Home Modifications: For more complex modifications, such as bathroom flooring adjustments or modifications that fall between $10,000 and $20,000, a home modification assessor must conduct the assessment. This is a specially qualified occupational therapist who is experienced in more detailed home modification needs.

The NDIS provides initial funding for 2 to 10 hours in your Capacity Building budget to cover the cost of the assessment.

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How the Assessment Process Works

Let’s take an example of how the assessment and approval process works for minor home modifications.

Example:

John has difficulty using his bathroom due to his mobility challenges. He finds it hard to step into the shower and reach the taps. After an assessment funded through his Capacity Building budget, John’s occupational therapist recommends installing a small ramp to allow safer access to the shower and lever taps that are easier to use. These modifications are expected to cost less than $10,000.

Since John rents his home, he gets written permission from his landlord to make the modifications. John submits the assessment report from his occupational therapist, along with the landlord’s approval, to his NDIS planner.

John does not need to provide any quotes because his modifications are minor, and he does not live in a remote area. The planner agrees that the modifications meet the NDIS funding criteria and includes the necessary amount in the Capital – Home Modifications budget of John’s NDIS plan.

Do You Need a Quote for Minor Home Modifications?

In most cases, you won’t need to provide a quote for minor home modifications. However, it’s a good idea to keep any quotes you receive for your own records, as the NDIS may ask to see them during audits or reviews. These quotes are also essential for warranties and to ensure that you’re receiving the appropriate modifications.

If you live in a remote or very remote area (MMM6 or MMM7 based on the Modified Monash Model), you will need to provide a quote to the NDIS for your modifications. For these areas, the NDIS uses building industry data to calculate a suitable budget based on the current market costs.

What If Your Modifications Exceed the Allocated Budget?

In cases where the approved modifications are expected to cost more than the initial funding, you can request a review of your budget. You will need to provide two independent quotes from suitable providers, and these quotes must itemize the cost of the approved modifications. If the NDIS agrees with the evidence provided, they may adjust your plan accordingly.

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Working with Builders for Home Modifications

It’s important to work with a licensed builder who understands NDIS requirements when undertaking minor home modifications. Your occupational therapist or home modification assessor must be independent of the builder to ensure that there is no conflict of interest. At Build Crew, we are experienced in delivering NDIS-compliant home modifications and can help you find the right solutions for your needs.

Additionally, where possible, try to find a tradesperson who provides quotes free of charge. If this isn’t an option, you can use flexible funding in your NDIS plan or cover the cost of the quote yourself.

Why Choose Build Crew for Your Minor Home Modifications?

At Build Crew, we specialize in delivering high-quality, NDIS-compliant home modifications to help individuals with disabilities live more independently. Our team works closely with occupational therapists, home modification assessors, and participants to ensure that every project meets the needs of the client while adhering to NDIS guidelines.

Why Build Crew?

  • Experienced Team: We have extensive experience in NDIS home modifications, ensuring that all work is compliant and of the highest standard.
  • Collaborative Approach: We work with both the client and their therapist to ensure that the modifications are tailored to the participant’s needs.
  • Cost-Effective Solutions: We provide cost-effective, high-quality modifications that are designed to last and meet NDIS budget requirements.

Getting minor home modifications included in your NDIS plan is a straightforward process when you have the right support. By working with qualified occupational therapists and experienced builders like Build Crew, you can ensure that your home is modified to meet your accessibility needs safely and efficiently.

If you’re ready to make changes to your home under the NDIS, contact Build Crew today. We are here to guide you through the process, from assessment to completion, ensuring that you receive the modifications you need to live comfortably and independently.

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