Can Home Modification Assessments support NDIS Home Modification funding?

Occupational Therapy reports may provide clinical evidence supporting recommendations for Home Modifications. Funding decisions remain the responsibility of the NDIA.

Home Modification Assessments | Occupational Therapy

Q: Who can benefit from a Home Modification Assessment?

Home Modification Assessments may benefit NDIS participants, older adults, children and adults with disability, people recovering from illness or injury, wheelchair users, people with progressive neurological conditions and individuals wishing to age in place.

Q: What does an Occupational Therapist assess during a Home Modification Assessment?

An Occupational Therapist may assess functional abilities, mobility, transfers, home access, bathroom layout, kitchen accessibility, doorway widths, hallways, wheelchair access, home measurements, existing equipment and environmental barriers.

Home Modification Assessments

Helping You Create a Safer, More Accessible Home

Your home should support your independence, safety and ability to participate in everyday life.

However, disability, injury, illness or age-related changes can make it increasingly difficult to safely access or use different areas of the home.

A Home Modification Assessment completed by an Occupational Therapist identifies environmental barriers and recommends structural changes that may improve accessibility, safety and independence.

At Belong Health, our Occupational Therapists provide comprehensive Home Modification Assessments for children, adolescents, adults and older adults across Perth, Mandurah, Rockingham and wider Western Australia.

Our assessments are personalised, evidence-based and focused on helping people continue participating in the activities that are important to them while remaining safe within their home environment.

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What Is a Home Modification Assessment?

A Home Modification Assessment is a comprehensive Occupational Therapy assessment that evaluates whether permanent changes to the home environment may improve a person's functional independence, accessibility and safety.

Unlike a Home Safety Assessment, which often identifies general hazards and practical strategies, a Home Modification Assessment specifically considers structural or permanent changes to the home.

These recommendations are based on how a person's disability affects their ability to safely complete everyday activities within their own environment.

The goal is to create a home that better supports participation while reducing barriers to independence.

What Are Home Modifications?

Home Modifications are permanent or semi-permanent changes made to a home to improve accessibility, usability and safety.
Depending on the individual's needs, modifications may include:

Bathroom renovations.
Accessible showers.
Grab rails.
Ramps.
Handrails.
Widened doorways.
Kitchen modifications.
Accessible benchtops.
Threshold modifications.
Improved pathways.
Stair modifications.
Access improvements.

Every recommendation is tailored to the individual's functional needs, home layout and long-term goals.

The Goals of a Home Modification Assessment

Every Home Modification Assessment is individualised.
Depending on your circumstances, the assessment may aim to:

Improve accessibility throughout the home.
Increase independence.
Reduce falls risks.
Improve safety during daily activities.
Support ageing in place.
Reduce manual handling risks for carers.
Improve wheelchair accessibility.
Support Assistive Technology use.
Improve participation in everyday routines.
Enable safer community access.

Occupational Therapists focus on modifications that improve functional participation rather than making unnecessary structural changes.

Home Modifications Are About Participation

Home Modifications are not simply renovations.
They are carefully planned environmental changes that support a person's ability to participate in everyday life.
For example, modifications may help someone:

Shower independently.
Access their kitchen safely.
Move throughout the home using mobility equipment.
Enter and leave the home more easily.
Complete household activities.
Reduce fatigue.
Improve safety during transfers.
Continue living at home.

Every recommendation is guided by clinical reasoning and the person's individual goals.

Home Modification Assessments and the NDIS Functional Domains

Many Home Modification Assessments consider how the home environment affects participation across the six NDIS Functional Domains.
Depending on your circumstances, recommended modifications may improve:

Mobility
Making it easier and safer to move throughout the home and access the community.

Self-Care
Supporting greater independence with showering, dressing, toileting and personal care.

Self-Management
Making it easier to manage daily routines and household responsibilities.

Some Home Modification Assessments may also influence Communication, Learning and Social Interaction where environmental accessibility affects participation.

Our guide to Understanding the NDIS Functional Domains explains how Occupational Therapists assess these areas when developing recommendations.

Home Modifications Are Never Based on Diagnosis Alone

Two people with the same diagnosis may require completely different Home Modifications.
This is because recommendations depend on factors such as:

Functional abilities.
Mobility.
Home layout.
Daily routines.
Assistive Technology.
Carer supports.
Future needs.
Personal goals.

Occupational Therapists assess the whole person and their environment before determining whether structural changes are clinically appropriate.

More Than Building Ramps

Many people assume Home Modifications only involve ramps or grab rails.
In reality, Occupational Therapists assess how every part of the home supports everyday participation.
Recommendations may involve:

Improving access.
Creating more usable space.
Supporting transfers.
Increasing safety.
Improving wheelchair access.
Supporting Assistive Technology.
Reducing physical effort.
Making daily routines easier to complete.

The goal is to create a home environment that works with the individual rather than against them.

Who Can Benefit From a Home Modification Assessment?

Home Modification Assessments may benefit people of all ages whose disability, health condition or injury affects their ability to safely access or use their home.

Although many people associate Home Modifications with ramps or bathroom renovations, Occupational Therapists assess a wide range of environmental barriers that may affect independence, safety and participation.

Every assessment is tailored to the individual's functional abilities, home environment and personal goals.

NDIS Participants

Home Modification Assessments are commonly completed for NDIS participants whose disability affects how they access or use their home.
An Occupational Therapist may assess whether structural changes could improve:

Safety.
Accessibility.
Independence.
Personal care.
Community access.
Mobility throughout the home.
Carer safety.
Participation in everyday activities.

Recommendations are based on functional need and aim to help participants achieve their goals while improving participation within their home environment.

Older Adults Wanting to Age in Place

Many older adults wish to remain living safely and independently in their own homes for as long as possible.
As mobility, balance or strength change over time, the home environment may become more difficult to navigate.

A Home Modification Assessment may identify changes that help support:

Safer bathroom access.
Easier mobility throughout the home.
Reduced falls risk.
Greater independence.
Improved accessibility.
Confidence when completing daily activities.

The aim is to support ageing in place while maintaining dignity, comfort and quality of life.

People Who Use Wheelchairs or Mobility Equipment

Wheelchairs, walking frames and other mobility equipment often require more space than a standard home provides.
A Home Modification Assessment may identify barriers such as:

Narrow doorways.
Small bathrooms.
Tight turning spaces.
Uneven pathways.
High thresholds.
Limited kitchen access.
Inaccessible entrances.

Occupational Therapists assess how the home environment can better support safe movement and everyday participation.

People Living With Neurological Conditions

Many neurological conditions affect mobility, coordination, strength, balance and endurance.
A Home Modification Assessment may benefit people living with:

Parkinson's disease.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
Huntington's disease.
Cerebral Palsy.
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI).
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
Stroke.
Spinal Cord Injury.

Recommendations consider both current functional abilities and, where appropriate, anticipated future changes.

People Recovering From Illness or Injury

Returning home following illness, injury or surgery can present new environmental challenges.
Home Modification Assessments may assist people recovering from:

Hip replacement surgery.
Knee replacement surgery.
Orthopaedic injuries.
Stroke.
Spinal injuries.
Rehabilitation following serious illness.

Recommendations aim to support a safe transition home while improving independence during recovery.

People Experiencing Falls or Reduced Balance

Frequent falls or concerns about falling may indicate that the home environment is no longer meeting a person's needs.
Home Modifications may improve safety by reducing environmental barriers that contribute to falls.
Examples may include:

Improved access.
Safer bathroom layouts.
Better entry and exit points.
Handrails.
Threshold modifications.
Improved circulation space.

Environmental changes are considered alongside the individual's functional abilities and mobility.

Children and Adolescents With Disability

Children with disability may benefit from Home Modifications that support participation as they grow and develop.
Depending on the child's needs, modifications may improve:

Bathroom access.
Mobility throughout the home.
Transfers.
Positioning.
Family routines.
Safety.
Participation in daily activities.

Recommendations also consider future growth and changing developmental needs.

People Living With Arthritis or Chronic Pain

Persistent pain, reduced joint movement and decreased strength can make everyday household activities more difficult.
Home Modifications may reduce physical strain by improving:

Access.
Reach.
Transfers.
Kitchen usability.
Bathroom safety.
Mobility throughout the home.

The goal is to make daily activities safer and less physically demanding.

Carers and Families

Home Modifications often benefit the entire support network—not just the individual receiving support.
Environmental changes may:

Reduce manual handling risks.
Improve transfer safety.
Increase working space for carers.
Improve equipment access.
Support safer personal care.
Reduce physical strain.

Occupational Therapists consider the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved in providing care.

Every Home Modification Assessment Is Individualised

No two homes are the same.
Even people with similar disabilities may require completely different modifications depending on:

Their functional abilities.
Their home layout.
Their goals.
Their existing equipment.
Their support network.
Their future needs.

Our Occupational Therapists complete comprehensive assessments to ensure recommendations are practical, evidence-based and tailored to the individual's circumstances rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.

What Does an Occupational Therapist Assess During a Home Modification Assessment?

A Home Modification Assessment is much more than identifying areas of the home that could be renovated.

Occupational Therapists complete a detailed assessment to understand how your disability, health condition or injury affects your ability to safely move around and use your home.

Rather than recommending modifications based on diagnosis alone, we assess how you interact with your environment while completing everyday activities.

Every recommendation is based on clinical reasoning, your functional abilities and your individual goals.

Understanding Your Goals

Every Home Modification Assessment begins by understanding what is important to you.
Your Occupational Therapist will discuss:

Your daily routines.
Current challenges.
Personal goals.
Home environment.
Future plans.
Current supports.
Existing equipment.
Previous home modifications.
Activities that are becoming difficult.

Understanding your priorities helps ensure recommendations focus on improving the activities that matter most to you.

Functional Assessment

Before recommending structural changes, Occupational Therapists assess how you currently complete everyday activities.
Depending on your needs, this may include observing:

Walking throughout the home.
Transfers between different surfaces.
Showering.
Toilet transfers.
Entering and exiting the home.
Preparing meals.
Accessing bedrooms.
Using mobility equipment.
Completing household tasks.

These observations help determine whether environmental barriers are limiting your independence.

Access to the Home

Safe access begins before entering the front door.
Your Occupational Therapist may assess:

Driveway access.
Pathways.
Surface stability.
Steps.
Ramps.
Handrails.
Entry doors.
Threshold heights.
External lighting.
Access from parking areas.

Improving access may make it easier to enter and leave the home safely while supporting community participation.

Doorways and Hallways

Doorways and circulation spaces are important for both safety and accessibility.
Your Occupational Therapist may assess:

Doorway widths.
Hallway widths.
Turning space.
Furniture placement.
Flooring.
Thresholds.
Accessibility for wheelchairs and walking aids.
Ease of movement throughout the home.

Small structural barriers can significantly affect everyday independence.

Bathroom Accessibility

Bathrooms are one of the most common areas requiring Home Modifications.
During the assessment, your Occupational Therapist may consider:

Shower access.
Bathroom layout.
Toilet positioning.
Turning space.
Transfer areas.
Plumbing constraints.
Existing fixtures.
Floor surfaces.
Ventilation.
Accessibility for Assistive Technology.

Recommendations aim to improve safety while maintaining privacy, dignity and independence.

Kitchen Accessibility

The kitchen should allow safe participation in meal preparation and other daily activities.
Your Occupational Therapist may assess:

Bench heights.
Cupboard accessibility.
Appliance access.
Reach distances.
Turning space.
Storage.
Lighting.
Workstation layout.

Recommendations focus on making everyday kitchen tasks safer and more accessible.

Bedroom Accessibility

Bedrooms should support safe movement and comfortable daily routines.
Your Occupational Therapist may assess:

Bed positioning.
Transfer space.
Access around furniture.
Storage accessibility.
Lighting.
Space for mobility equipment.
Pressure care requirements where relevant.

Environmental changes may improve both independence and carer access.

Laundry and Utility Areas

Laundry tasks can become physically demanding when access is limited.
The assessment may include:

Appliance access.
Bench heights.
Standing tolerance.
Reach requirements.
Flooring.
Storage.
Turning space.

Recommendations aim to improve usability while reducing physical strain.

Outdoor Areas

Outdoor environments are just as important as indoor spaces.
Occupational Therapists may assess:

Pathways.
Ramps.
Steps.
Handrails.
Outdoor lighting.
Garden access.
Clothesline access.
Letterbox access.
Garage access.

Improving outdoor accessibility supports independence and community participation.

Stairs and Level Changes

Changes in floor levels can become major barriers for people with reduced mobility.
Your Occupational Therapist may assess:

Internal stairs.
External steps.
Split-level flooring.
Ramp suitability.
Handrails.
Landing space.
Lighting.
Step dimensions.

Recommendations aim to improve safety while maintaining access throughout the home.

Wheelchair Accessibility

Where wheelchairs or other mobility equipment are used, Occupational Therapists assess whether the home provides sufficient space for safe movement.
This may include:

Turning circles.
Door clearances.
Corridor widths.
Bathroom access.
Kitchen access.
Bedroom access.
Outdoor access.
Vehicle access where appropriate.

Measurements are often taken to ensure recommended modifications accommodate both the individual and their equipment.

Compatibility With Assistive Technology

Home Modifications and Assistive Technology often work together.
Your Occupational Therapist considers whether the home can safely accommodate equipment such as:

Wheelchairs.
Walking frames.
Shower chairs.
Ceiling hoists.
Transfer equipment.
Pressure care equipment.
Adjustable beds.

Recommendations aim to ensure both the home and the equipment work together to maximise independence.

Measuring the Home

Accurate measurements are an important part of many Home Modification Assessments.
Depending on the proposed modifications, your Occupational Therapist may measure:

Doorway widths.
Hallway widths.
Bathroom dimensions.
Shower areas.
Toilet positioning.
Kitchen layouts.
Ramp gradients.
Turning spaces.
Ceiling heights where relevant.

These measurements help ensure proposed modifications are practical, safe and appropriate.

Planning for Future Needs

Some Home Modifications are designed not only for current needs but also to accommodate future changes.
Where appropriate, Occupational Therapists consider:

Progressive neurological conditions.
Growing children.
Changes in mobility.
Increased equipment needs.
Future carer support.
Long-term accessibility.

Planning ahead may reduce the need for repeated modifications over time.

Clinical Reasoning

Every Home Modification recommendation is supported by clinical reasoning.
Occupational Therapists consider:

Whether the modification improves functional participation.
Whether it increases safety.
Whether it supports independence.
Whether it is practical within the existing home.
Whether Assistive Technology may be a better option.
Whether simpler environmental changes could achieve the same outcome.
Whether future needs should influence the recommendation.

This ensures recommendations are evidence-based, functional and tailored to the individual's circumstances.

Every Home Modification Assessment Is Individualised

No two homes are identical, and no two people use their homes in exactly the same way.
Even people with similar disabilities may receive very different recommendations depending on:

Their goals.
Their daily routines.
Their home layout.
Their functional abilities.
Their support network.
Their existing equipment.
Their future needs.

Our Occupational Therapists carefully assess the interaction between the individual and their environment before recommending modifications that support greater safety, accessibility and independence.

What Happens After a Home Modification Assessment?

A Home Modification Assessment is only the beginning of the process.

Following the assessment, your Occupational Therapist carefully reviews the information gathered and develops recommendations that are practical, evidence-based and tailored to your individual needs.

The recommendations will depend on your functional abilities, home environment, goals and the purpose of the assessment.

Some people may only require minor modifications, while others may benefit from more extensive structural changes to improve long-term accessibility and independence.

Reviewing the Assessment Findings

Following the assessment, your Occupational Therapist carefully considers all of the information collected.
This may include:

Functional observations.
Daily routines.
Mobility.
Transfers.
Home measurements.
Existing equipment.
Home layout.
Falls risks.
Current supports.
Future planning considerations.

Rather than recommending modifications immediately, Occupational Therapists consider whether structural changes are the most appropriate solution or whether other interventions may better meet the individual's needs.

Developing Individualised Recommendations

Every Home Modification recommendation is personalised.
Recommendations are based on how environmental barriers affect everyday participation rather than focusing on diagnosis alone.
Depending on your circumstances, recommendations may aim to:

Improve accessibility.
Increase independence.
Improve safety.
Reduce falls risk.
Support Assistive Technology.
Improve wheelchair access.
Reduce manual handling risks.
Support carers.
Improve long-term usability of the home.

The goal is to create practical solutions that support everyday living rather than unnecessary renovations.

Occupational Therapy Report

Where required, your Occupational Therapist may prepare a comprehensive report outlining the assessment findings and recommended Home Modifications.
Depending on the purpose of the assessment, the report may include:

Assessment summary.
Functional observations.
Clinical reasoning.
Home measurements.
Environmental barriers identified.
Recommended Home Modifications.
Safety considerations.
Accessibility recommendations.
Future planning considerations.
Supporting clinical evidence.

Reports are tailored to the participant's individual circumstances and the requirements of the relevant funding body where appropriate.

Working With Builders and Other Professionals

Home Modifications often involve collaboration with a range of professionals.
With your consent, your Occupational Therapist may work alongside:

Licensed builders.
Home Modification providers.
Architects.
Building designers.
Equipment suppliers.
Support Coordinators.
Physiotherapists.
Speech Pathologists.
Medical specialists.
Other allied health professionals.

Working collaboratively helps ensure recommended modifications are practical, safe and appropriate for your functional needs.

Minor and Major Home Modifications

Not every Home Modification involves major building work.

Some recommendations may involve relatively minor changes, while others require more extensive structural modifications.
Examples of minor modifications may include:

Grab rails.
Handrails.
Lever door handles.
Threshold adjustments.
Small access improvements.

More complex modifications may include:

Bathroom renovations.
Accessible showers.
Kitchen modifications.
Ramps.
Widened doorways.
Structural access changes.

The level of modification recommended depends on the individual's goals, functional needs and home environment.

Home Modifications and Assistive Technology

Home Modifications and Assistive Technology often work together.
For example, a wheelchair or shower chair may not be effective unless the home environment also provides:

Adequate turning space.
Accessible bathrooms.
Suitable door widths.
Appropriate flooring.
Safe transfer areas.

Occupational Therapists consider how equipment and the home environment interact to maximise safety, accessibility and independence.

NDIS Participants

For NDIS participants, a Home Modification Assessment may provide clinical evidence supporting recommendations for environmental modifications.

Occupational Therapists assess how structural changes may improve functional participation and reduce barriers created by the home environment.

Recommendations are based on clinical assessment and functional need.
Any funding decisions are made independently by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).

Planning for the Future

Some Home Modifications are designed to address current challenges.
Others are planned with future needs in mind.
Occupational Therapists may consider:

Progressive neurological conditions.
Changes in mobility.
Growing children.
Increasing equipment needs.
Future carer support.
Long-term accessibility.

Planning ahead may reduce the need for repeated renovations while supporting continued independence.

Reviewing Home Modifications

A person's needs may change over time.
Review appointments may be beneficial if:

Functional abilities change.
Health conditions progress.
A child grows.
New equipment is introduced.
Home circumstances change.
Additional accessibility challenges arise.

Review assessments help ensure previous modifications continue to support safe and meaningful participation.

Home Modifications Are Part of a Broader Plan

Structural changes alone do not always provide the best outcome.
Occupational Therapists may also recommend:

Assistive Technology.
Home Safety Assessments.
Functional Capacity Assessments.
Falls Risk Assessments.
Therapy intervention.
Changes to daily routines.
Carer education.
Additional allied health support.

Combining several strategies often provides better long-term outcomes than relying on a single intervention.

Supporting Long-Term Independence

The purpose of a Home Modification Assessment is not simply to recommend building work.

It is to identify environmental changes that help people continue living safely, independently and confidently within their own homes.

Whether recommendations involve a simple grab rail or a fully accessible bathroom renovation, every modification is guided by the individual's goals, functional needs and everyday participation.

Our Occupational Therapists work collaboratively with participants, families and other professionals to ensure Home Modifications are practical, evidence-based and support long-term independence.

Home Modification Assessments and the NDIS

For many NDIS participants, Home Modifications play an important role in improving accessibility, independence and participation in everyday life.
A Home Modification Assessment provides clinical evidence about how changes to the home environment may reduce the impact of disability on everyday functioning.
Depending on your individual circumstances, recommendations may support:

Safer personal care.
Improved mobility throughout the home.
Better access to essential living areas.
Increased independence.
Improved wheelchair accessibility.
Reduced falls risks.
Safer transfers.
Greater participation in everyday routines.

Occupational Therapists assess how modifications support your functional goals while helping you live more safely and independently within your home.

Although Occupational Therapy reports provide important clinical evidence, all funding decisions remain the responsibility of the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).

Minor and Complex Home Modifications

Not all Home Modifications require major renovations.
Some environmental changes are relatively straightforward, while others involve significant planning, design and construction.
The type of modification recommended depends on your functional needs, home environment and long-term goals.

Minor Home Modifications
Minor Home Modifications generally involve smaller structural changes that improve safety and accessibility without substantially altering the home.
Examples may include:

Grab rails.
Handrails.
Lever door handles.
Threshold adjustments.
Small ramps.
Minor access improvements.
Safety modifications.

Although these modifications may appear simple, an Occupational Therapy assessment helps ensure they are appropriate, correctly positioned and likely to improve functional participation.

Complex Home Modifications
Complex Home Modifications usually involve larger structural changes that require detailed assessment, planning and collaboration with other professionals.
Examples may include:

Accessible bathroom renovations.
Roll-in showers.
Kitchen modifications.
Widened doorways.
Structural ramps.
Ceiling hoist installation.
Significant accessibility renovations.
Internal layout changes.
External access modifications.

These recommendations are based on comprehensive assessment and careful consideration of the individual's current and future functional needs.

Home Modifications and Assistive Technology

Home Modifications and Assistive Technology often work together to achieve the best outcomes.
For example:

A wheelchair may require wider doorways and increased turning space.
A shower chair may require an accessible shower layout.
Transfer equipment may require additional space around the bed or bathroom.
Pressure care equipment may influence bedroom layouts.
Ceiling hoists require structural planning before installation.

Occupational Therapists consider how the home environment and Assistive Technology interact to ensure recommendations work together effectively.

Supporting Independence Across Every Stage of Life

Home Modification Assessments are suitable for people at many different stages of life.

Children may require environmental changes that support development, mobility and participation as they grow.
Adults may benefit from modifications that improve independence at home while supporting employment, parenting or community participation.

Older adults often seek Home Modifications that support ageing in place and reduce the risk of falls.
Because functional needs change over time, recommendations are always individualised and may be reviewed as circumstances evolve.

Working Together With Your Support Team

Home Modification Assessments often involve collaboration with the people supporting you every day.
With your consent, your Occupational Therapist may work alongside:

Family members.
Carers.
Support workers.
Support Coordinators.
Specialist Support Coordinators.
Physiotherapists.
Speech Pathologists.
Positive Behaviour Support Practitioners.
Builders.
Architects.
Building designers.
Home Modification providers.
Medical specialists.

Working collaboratively helps ensure recommendations are practical, achievable and aligned with your goals.

Why Choose Belong Health?

At Belong Health, we believe Home Modifications should do more than improve accessibility.
They should support people to live safely, independently and confidently within the homes they know and love.

Our Occupational Therapists take the time to understand your:

Functional abilities.
Daily routines.
Home environment.
Personal goals.
Existing equipment.
Current supports.
Future needs.

This allows us to develop recommendations that are practical, evidence-based and tailored to your individual circumstances.

We provide Home Modification Assessments for children, adolescents, adults and older adults across Perth, Mandurah, Rockingham, the Peel Region and wider Western Australia.

Assessments may be completed:

In your home.
Within the community where appropriate.
At one of our clinics for planning discussions where appropriate.
Via telehealth for suitable components of the assessment and follow-up consultations.

Contact Belong Health

If you would like to learn more about a Home Modification Assessment, our team is here to help.

Whether you're exploring options to improve accessibility, preparing an NDIS application, planning for future needs or looking to make your home safer and easier to use, our Occupational Therapists can guide you through the assessment process.

We take a collaborative, person-centred approach to developing practical recommendations that support greater independence, safety and participation in everyday life.

Call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us an online enquiry to discuss whether a Home Modification Assessment is the right option for you.

Related Occupational Therapy Resources

You may also find these guides helpful.

Occupational Therapy Assessment Guides

Occupational Therapy Assessments

Related Occupational Therapy Services

Frequently Asked Questions - Home Modification Assessments

What is a Home Modification Assessment?
A Home Modification Assessment is a comprehensive Occupational Therapy assessment that evaluates whether permanent or semi-permanent changes to your home may improve safety, accessibility, independence and participation in everyday activities.

Who completes a Home Modification Assessment?
Home Modification Assessments are typically completed by Occupational Therapists, who assess how your disability, health condition or injury affects your ability to safely use your home.

What are Home Modifications?
Home Modifications are structural or permanent changes made to a home to improve accessibility, safety and independence. Examples include ramps, accessible bathrooms, widened doorways and handrails.

Who can benefit from a Home Modification Assessment?
Home Modification Assessments may benefit:

NDIS participants
Older adults
Children with disability
Adults with disability
People recovering from illness or injury
Wheelchair users
People with progressive neurological conditions
Individuals wishing to age in place

What happens during a Home Modification Assessment?
Your Occupational Therapist will discuss your goals, observe how you complete everyday activities, assess your home environment, take measurements where required and identify environmental barriers that may affect your independence.

How long does a Home Modification Assessment take?
The length of the assessment depends on the size of the home and the complexity of your needs. Your Occupational Therapist will discuss expected timeframes before your appointment.

Do I need a referral?
In many situations, no referral is required. However, some funding bodies or healthcare providers may request one.

Can Home Modification Assessments be funded through the NDIS?
Depending on your NDIS plan and individual circumstances, a Home Modification Assessment may be funded where it is considered reasonable and necessary. Funding decisions are made by the NDIA.

What is the difference between a Home Modification Assessment and a Home Safety Assessment?
A Home Safety Assessment identifies environmental hazards and practical strategies to improve safety, while a Home Modification Assessment specifically evaluates whether structural changes to the home may improve accessibility and independence.

What is the difference between a Home Modification Assessment and a Functional Capacity Assessment?
A Functional Capacity Assessment evaluates overall functioning across multiple life areas, whereas a Home Modification Assessment focuses specifically on how the home environment affects everyday participation.

What does an Occupational Therapist assess during a Home Modification Assessment?
Your Occupational Therapist may assess:

Functional abilities
Mobility
Transfers
Home access
Bathroom layout
Kitchen accessibility
Doorway widths
Hallways
Wheelchair access
Home measurements
Existing equipment
Environmental barriers

Will my Occupational Therapist take measurements?
Yes. Where appropriate, measurements may be taken to ensure recommended Home Modifications are practical, safe and compatible with your home and any Assistive Technology you use.

Which areas of my home will be assessed?
Depending on your needs, your Occupational Therapist may assess:

Entryways
Hallways
Living areas
Kitchen
Bathroom
Toilet
Bedroom
Laundry
Outdoor areas
Garage
Stairs

Can an Occupational Therapist recommend bathroom renovations?
Yes. If clinically appropriate, your Occupational Therapist may recommend bathroom modifications that improve accessibility and safety.

Can an Occupational Therapist recommend ramps?
Yes. Ramps may be recommended where they improve access to and from the home or between different areas of the property.

Can an Occupational Therapist recommend widened doorways?
Yes. Where narrow doorways limit accessibility, widening doorways may be recommended to improve movement throughout the home.

Can an Occupational Therapist recommend grab rails?
Yes. Grab rails may be recommended where they improve safety and independence during transfers or mobility.

Can Home Modifications improve wheelchair access?
Yes. Home Modifications may improve accessibility for manual and powered wheelchair users by increasing circulation space and reducing environmental barriers.

Can Home Modifications reduce falls?
Yes. Home Modifications may reduce environmental hazards that contribute to falls while improving safe movement throughout the home.

Are Home Modifications only for older adults?
No. Home Modifications may benefit children, adolescents, adults and older adults whose home environment affects their safety or independence.

Can children have Home Modification Assessments?
Yes. Children with disability may benefit from Home Modifications that improve participation, accessibility and family routines.

Can Home Modification Assessments help people following a stroke?
Yes. Home Modifications may improve accessibility and independence following a stroke by addressing environmental barriers within the home.

Can Home Modification Assessments help people with Parkinson's disease?
Yes. Occupational Therapists assess how Parkinson's disease affects everyday mobility and may recommend modifications that improve safety and accessibility.

Can Home Modification Assessments help people with Multiple Sclerosis?
Yes. Recommendations may address mobility, fatigue, accessibility and future planning for people living with Multiple Sclerosis.

Can Home Modification Assessments help people with spinal cord injuries?
Yes. Home Modifications may improve accessibility, transfers and participation for people living with spinal cord injuries.

Can Home Modification Assessments help people living with dementia?
Yes. Occupational Therapists may recommend environmental changes that improve safety, orientation and independence for people living with dementia.

Can Home Modifications support ageing in place?
Yes. Many Home Modifications are designed to help older adults remain living safely and independently in their own homes.

Will I receive an Occupational Therapy report?
Where appropriate, your Occupational Therapist may prepare a detailed report outlining assessment findings, clinical reasoning and recommended Home Modifications.

How long does it take to receive my report?
Report timeframes vary depending on the complexity of the assessment. Your Occupational Therapist will discuss expected timeframes with you.

What happens after the assessment?
Following the assessment, your Occupational Therapist reviews the findings, develops recommendations and discusses the next steps with you.

Will builders be involved?
For some Home Modifications, your Occupational Therapist may collaborate with builders, designers or other professionals to ensure modifications are appropriate and achievable.

Can Home Modifications work with Assistive Technology?
Yes. Home Modifications and Assistive Technology are often recommended together to maximise safety, accessibility and independence.

What is the difference between minor and complex Home Modifications?
Minor Home Modifications generally involve smaller structural changes such as grab rails or threshold adjustments, while complex Home Modifications may include accessible bathrooms, ramps or significant structural alterations.

Can Home Modifications reduce carer strain?
Yes. Environmental changes may improve manual handling, transfers and accessibility while reducing physical demands on carers.

Can my Support Coordinator attend the assessment?
Yes. With your consent, your Support Coordinator may attend where appropriate.

Can family members attend the assessment?
Yes. Family members often provide valuable information about everyday routines, goals and support needs.

Can support workers contribute information?
Yes. Support workers may provide useful information regarding how you use your home and the challenges you experience during everyday activities.

Does every Home Modification Assessment recommend building work?
No. Sometimes simple environmental changes or Assistive Technology may provide the best outcome without requiring structural modifications.

Can Home Modifications improve independence?
Yes. Home Modifications aim to reduce environmental barriers so people can participate more safely and independently in everyday activities.

Can Home Modifications improve community access?
Yes. Improvements to entrances, pathways and external access may make it easier to leave and return home safely.

How do Home Modification Assessments relate to the NDIS Functional Domains?
Home Modification Assessments commonly support improvements in Mobility, Self-Care and Self-Management, while also influencing other functional domains where environmental accessibility affects participation.

Does the Occupational Therapist approve NDIS funding?
No. Occupational Therapists provide clinical evidence and recommendations. Funding decisions are made by the NDIA.

Can an Occupational Therapist guarantee funding for Home Modifications?
No. Recommendations are based on clinical assessment and functional need. Funding approval is determined by the relevant funding body.

Can Home Modification recommendations change over time?
Yes. Recommendations may change as your functional abilities, home environment or support needs change.

Why choose an Occupational Therapist for a Home Modification Assessment?
Occupational Therapists understand how disability and the home environment interact. They recommend modifications based on functional participation, safety, accessibility and long-term independence rather than diagnosis alone.

Can Belong Health provide Home Modification Assessments across Western Australia?
Yes. Belong Health provides Home Modification Assessments for children, adolescents, adults and older adults across Perth, Mandurah, Rockingham, the Peel Region and wider Western Australia.

How do I book a Home Modification Assessment with Belong Health?
You can contact Belong Health by calling (08) 9586 3934 or submitting an online enquiry. Our team can discuss your circumstances, answer your questions and help determine whether a Home Modification Assessment is the right option for your needs.

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Referrals to Belong Health
We are Medicare and Private Health fund registered for Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology.

EPC/Team care arrangements/Chronic disease (CDM) or GP management plans and self-referrals are all acceptable.

WA NDIS Registered Provider

Medicare
You can get a referral from your/your child’s GP for OT on a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan this gives you 5 sessions for OT per calendar year with a $53 rebate available on each session or a Helping Children with Autism/PDD/ or an eligible disability package (20 sessions between allied health professionals, as set up by a Paediatrician/Psychiatrist) which gives your child under 16 years a $75 rebate per session for the 20 sessions, you can use up to 10 sessions per Health Professional (up to 10 for OT) and you will need a separate referral letter from your child’s Paediatrician for each Allied Health Professional you are seeking services from.

Private Health
Your Private Health fund may cover up to 75% of the cost of OT sessions if this is included in your cover, be sure to call them or check your policy for details.

No referral or self referral
You do not require a referral for accessing OT

NDIS Registered Provider
We are an NDIS Registered Provider
Whether you or your child have NDIS funding that is NDIS Managed, Third Party Plan Managed or you are Self-Managing your funds, you are able to use your funding to cover the full cost of therapy services plus travel costs. You will need provide us with your/your child’s NDIS number and plan details ahead of your first session. Once you have booked a session or contacted us, our team will be in touch to discuss our service agreement and provide you with our services price list.

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