When planning home modifications, many people assume that an Occupational Therapist (OT) will also have their own builders or tradies to carry out the work. A common question we hear is:

“Do all OTs have in-house builders and tradies?”

The short answer is no—and that’s completely normal. Understanding how OTs typically work with builders can help you choose the right professionals and avoid confusion during the home modification process.

Do OTs Usually Employ Their Own Builders?

Most Occupational Therapists do not have in-house builders or tradies.

Instead, OTs focus on their clinical role, which includes:

• Assessing your needs and environment
  
• Recommending appropriate home modifications
  
• Supporting funding applications (including NDIS)
  
• Ensuring modifications meet safety and accessibility standards
  

The construction work itself is usually carried out by independent builders and licensed tradespeople.

Why Don’t Most OTs Have In-House Trades?

There are several practical reasons:

1. Different Professional Roles

• OTs are health professionals, trained in assessment, function, and safety.
  
• Builders and tradies are licensed construction professionals.
  
• Combining both under one business is complex and uncommon.
  

2. Flexibility for Clients

Using independent builders allows:

• Choice of local trades
  
• Competitive quotes
  
• Flexibility for NDIS and non-NDIS participants
  

3. Avoiding Conflicts of Interest

Separating assessment (OT) and construction (builder) helps ensure:

• Recommendations are client-focused, not commercially driven
  

• Transparency in pricing and scope of works

How Do OTs Usually Work With Builders and Tradies?

While OTs don’t usually employ builders directly, they collaborate closely with them.

An OT will typically:

• Provide detailed reports and specifications for modifications
  
• Communicate accessibility and safety requirements to the builder
  
• Answer questions during the build process
  
• Review completed works to ensure they meet the client’s needs
  

This collaborative approach ensures the modification is both clinically appropriate and well built.

Are There OTs Who Work With Preferred Builders?

Yes—some OTs:

• Have trusted builders or tradies they regularly work with
  
• Can recommend professionals experienced in home modifications
  
• Coordinate projects to make the process easier for clients
  

However, this does not usually mean the builders are employed by the OT. They remain separate businesses working together.

Important: As an NDIS participant, you generally still have choice and control over which builder you use.

What Does This Mean for NDIS Participants?

If you’re an NDIS participant, this is what you need to know:

• Your OT’s role is to assess and recommend, not build
  
• You can use:
  
  • NDIS registered builders, or
    
  • Non-registered builders (depending on your plan management)
    
• Your OT can help you:
  
  • Review quotes
    
  • Ensure the scope matches NDIS requirements
    
  • Communicate changes or concerns

How to Find the Right OT and Builder Combination

To ensure a smooth home modification process:

• Choose an OT experienced in home modifications
  
• Look for builders or tradies with accessibility experience
  
• Ensure clear communication between all parties
  
• Use a trusted directory to find professionals who regularly work together
  

Find Home Modification OTs and Builders in One Place

ModAccess helps you find Occupational Therapists, builders, and home modification providers across Australia—making it easier to connect the right professionals for your project.

👉 Search for home modification experts near you