Home Modifications
Home modifications are adaptations made to a home to allow for easier and safer access due to specific needs resulting from a disability. This section covers some of the considerations to think about when considering home modifications.
A house that is adapted to the needs of a person with a disability will lend to a house that is safe and allows the person to remain at home. Depending on the person's needs and goals, modifications can range from adding a ramp for wheelchair access to totally remodeling a home. Modifications may include bigger entranceways, adapted kitchens and bathrooms, elevators to go from one level of the house to another, and security measures. The table below provides some examples of reasons that people choose to adapt their homes.
Reasons to Adapt a Home
| Problem |
Possible Solution |
| Difficulty getting in and out of the shower or bathtub |
Install grab bars, shower seats, transfer benches |
| Access to house |
Install ramps to main entrances of house |
| Inadequate heating, air conditioning, or ventilation |
Install insulation, storm windows, air conditioning and/or heating system |
| Difficulty climbing stairs |
Install handrails or an elevator system |
| Access to rooms using a wheelchair |
Widen doorways and halls |
| Transferring a person from one area to another |
Install a lift tracking system |
| Inadequate storage space for medical supplies |
Build walk-in storage closets |
| Keep child safe and secure |
Special locks and security devices on cabinets, closets, and doors |
| Ability to perform daily living skills |
Adapt kitchen to accommodate child who uses a wheelchair |
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Many accessibility problems can be taken care of by making minor structural changes and can be done with or without the help of a professional. Numerous products are available by catalog from companies that specialize in accessibility products. Ask a therapist or other professional who specializes in adaptive equipment and modifications for suggestions and referrals. Also check with other people with disabilities and their caregivers. Some have come up with creative and inexpensive solutions to accessibility issues.
Some people need houses that require extensive renovations. Since remodeling a present home or custom building a new accessible home is quite expense, planning is an essential part of the process. It is wise, and often cost-effective, to do as many modifications at one time rather than remodeling several times. Especially in the case of a child with a disability, remember to think about future needs. As the child grows, will the bathroom be large enough for her to use? Will a new bed be needed in his bedroom, and if so, is the bedroom large enough for a hospital-sized bed? Do you need a room addition to create a therapy/recreation room for your child? It is well worth the time to research and find a contractor who has experience in home modifications.
When hiring a contractor, get recommendations from others who have done similar modifications. Make sure that the contractor is licensed and bonded. Insist on a written agreement that details the activities and modifications that will be done. Check with the Better Business Bureau to review the contractor's business record. Some counties offer consulting through a home modification and repair program, such as through the county board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (MRDD). Check with your county board of MRDD to see if a program is available in your area.
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The Fair Housing Act of 1988 Section 6(a) makes it illegal for landlords to refuse to let tenants make reasonable modifications to their house or apartment if the tenant is willing to pay for the modifications. The tenant must also restore the apartment or house when the leave, at the landlord's request. Certain accessibility features, such as wheelchair accessibility and reinforced walls to accommodate later installation of grab bars in bathrooms, is required when new new dwellings with four or more units are built.
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The cost of adapting a house is a major consideration. Research is essential to finding which agencies will help with funding. Check with the agencies or programs that are currently providing services to the person with a disability. Because the needs of each person differs according to their disability, what is approved for one person won't necessarily be approved for another. Other organizations to check with include:
- Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program (Some local housing agencies utilize portions of their program to pay for home modifications)
- Independent Living Centers in Ohio
- Office of Community Services of the Ohio, Department of Development (call telephone number: 614-466-6207, for the Community Action Agency in your county)
- Access for Individuals (low interest loan program)
- Ohio Housing Trust Fund's Request-for-Proposals and Community Housing Improvement Programs (call telephone number: 614-466-2285, for a list of programs)
- Local organizations and charities will sometimes hold fund-raisers or offer donations on behalf of your need, too.
Certain modifications are considered medical expenses and may be claimed as deductions on your tax form. Contact your local
Internal Revenue Office or tax attorney for more information.
For information about getting a back-up generator for your house, visit this Web site: Funding for Generators - Steps for Acquiring Funding through the Ohio Home Care Program.
Refer to the Housing section for a list of links to other organizations that offer more information about finding and funding housing and accessibility modifications.
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