If you’re an NDIS participant who has been approved for home modification funding, one of the most common questions is:

Do I have to use an NDIS-registered builder or tradie?

The short answer is: it depends on how your NDIS plan is managed.

Below, we explain the rules clearly so you can make informed choices and avoid delays or payment issues.

Understanding NDIS Registration for Builders and Tradies

Not all builders, tradies, or home modification professionals are NDIS registered — and importantly, they don’t always need to be.

The requirement depends on whether your plan is:

• Agency-managed

• Plan-managed

• Self-managed

When You Do Need an NDIS-Registered Builder or Tradie

You must use an NDIS-registered provider if:

✔️ Your plan is NDIS Agency-Managed

If the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) pays providers directly:

• Only NDIS-registered builders, tradies, and home modification providers can be paid

• Invoices must meet strict NDIA compliance requirements

• You’ll usually work through approved providers recommended by your Support Coordinator or Occupational Therapist (OT)

This is common for:

• Complex or high-cost structural modifications

• Specialist disability accommodation-related works

When You Do Not Need an NDIS-Registered Builder or Tradie

You do not need an NDIS-registered provider if your plan is:

✔️ Plan-Managed

• Your Plan Manager can pay non-registered builders and tradies

• Providers must still be:

  • Appropriately licensed

  • Insured

  • Able to supply compliant invoices

✔️ Self-Managed

• You have the most flexibility

• You can choose any qualified builder or tradie

• You pay invoices and claim reimbursement from the NDIS

What All Builders and Tradies Must Meet (Registered or Not)

Regardless of registration status, anyone completing NDIS-funded home modifications must:

• Hold the correct trade licences

• Have public liability insurance

• Follow Australian building standards

• Complete works according to an OT-approved home modification report

• Provide clear, itemised invoices

For major modifications, the NDIS may also require:

• Quotes in a specific format

• Progress payments

• Final sign-off by an Occupational Therapist

Finding the right builder or tradie can be one of the hardest parts of the home modification process.

ModAccess helps:

• NDIS participants find experienced, disability-aware builders

• Homeowners connect with OT-approved builders

• OTs collaborate with reliable local professionals

• Reduce project delays and compliance issues

This is especially valuable for plan-managed and self-managed participants, who have more choice but less guidance.