NDIS bathroom modifications

Each NDIS participant is unique, with their own goals and needs – as such there’s no one-size-fits-all bathroom solution. However, there are some common requirements:

• Shower access – traditional shower cubicles can be difficult to enter, and may not allow enough space for mobility aids
• Fall prevention – people with disability are at a higher risk of slipping and falling, especially in bathrooms where surfaces are often slippery
• Doorways – some participants may face challenges entering and leaving the bathroom
• Toilet access – toilet handrails can support easier transfer, while wall removal can make toilets easier to use by creating more space around
• Fixture replacement – fixtures such as lever-style taps and handheld showerheads are easier to use for participants with fine motor skill impairments

Given that falls are the most common type of bathroom injury, replacing slippery tiles with non-slip alternatives can making the bathroom significantly safer for people with disability.

Unlike regular bathroom tiles, anti-slip tiles have a coarse or textured coating that creates friction. This reduces slipping, even when tiles are covered in water or suds.

Australian Building Standards set out different slip-resistance ratings, with the Pendulum Test generally used for residential use. For NDIS participants with a higher risk of slipping, it’s generally recommended to install R11 or R12-rated tiles, as these provide a higher level of slip-resistance.

Our NDIS bathroom specialists can replace existing tiling with slip-resistant tiles in bathrooms, as well as in kitchens, laundry rooms, and other high-risk areas.

Yes. The NDIS may provide funding for a range of NDIS home automation solutions that can support your ability to use the bathroom independently. For occupational therapists looking for bidets, our team of NDIS builders can collaborate with you to prescribe a bidet that’s

NDIS bidet installation is just one example – other types of bathroom automation can include:

• Sensor-activated lighting
• Automated temperature control
• Motion-activated taps
• Self-flushing toilets

Yes! Handrail installation is a relatively simple job that our NDIS builders can offer for many rooms in your home, including especially high-risk rooms like the bathroom.

This includes installing handrails for shower cubicles, which can improve shower accessibility and safety, as well as toilet handrails to support safer toilet usage.

Most traditional showers have a small lip or step. For people with disability, this can often be a tripping hazard and make entry into the shower more challenging to navigate. Stepless showers and roll-in showers remove this lip, creating a seamless surface that eliminates this risk and makes entry or egress easier.

In addition to removing the step, roll-in showers also frequently use open shower designs without any cubicle walls or doors. This creates more space for residents and allows NDIS participants who’ve been prescribed shower commodes, stools, and other assistive aids to use them in the shower.

Whether your NDIS builder uses a prefabricated stepless base or inserts, or builds a custom cubicle, installing a stepless shower comes with a number of steps:

• Removing the existing shower base and subfloor
• Removing existing doors and glass from the existing cubicle
• Adjusting plumbing and drainage pipes (if required)
• Installing recessed drains
• Waterproofing and sealing

In many cases, stepless shower base installation may be classified as a complex home modification. In these cases, you may be provided additional funding for an NDIS-registered building works project manager to oversee your project.

In addition to slipping, hot water scalds and burns are another common hazard many people who live with disability may face when using the shower. Thermostatic Mixing Valves (TMVs) are plumbing devices that prevent this by continuously mixing a specific amount of cold water into the hot water supply. This ensures the water never exceeds a set temperature, reducing the risk of hot water burns and scalds.

In addition to precisely maintaining a comfortable and safe temperature, TMVs can also quickly correct unexpected temperature fluctuations.

In Australia, Thermostatic Mixing Valves are only mandated in buildings that service the general public, as well as facilities that service more vulnerable individuals such as schools, hospitals, and aged care facilities. Residential homes in Australia are only required to install Tempering Valves (which are cheaper and less effective than TMVs).

Many NDIS participants however fall into a higher risk category, and thus may receive funding for Thermostatic Mixing Valves to be installed in their home’s hot water system. Our NDIS bathroom modification specialists have experience with a wide range of plumbing modifications, including upgrades such as thermostatic mixing valve installation.

In addition to comprehensive bathroom renovations, the NDIS will also provide funding for minor modifications. Lever tap handles are a good example of this, as they are easier to manipulate for people who live with fine motor disability compared to traditional knob-style taps.

• Disability bathroom renovation/bathroom renovations for people with disability (Melbourne)
• NDIS approved bathroom renovation contractors