ScenarioPlusby Waiver Academy
‹ Safe at Home

Pocket guide · Home modifications

Safe at Home

Build it for the person who lives there.

  1. Start with the personEvery home modification is built for one person. Before you measure, ask them how they move and what's hard, and follow the therapist's or assessor's recommendation. A standard install in the wrong place can make a home less safe. Episode 1: Measure Twice
  2. Wait for the approvalDon't start a modification until it is approved in writing. The approval spells out what will be built, where, and for how much. Work done before approval may not match the plan and may not be paid. Episode 2: Approved Means Approved
  3. Bill only the approved workThe program pays only for the approved modification. Extra jobs, even small or kind ones, can't be added to that bill. Quote them separately, or ask the case manager about other help. Episode 3: While We're Here
  4. Change orders come firstIf you find something that changes the job, stop, document it with photos, and get a change order approved before doing the extra work. Don't add surprise costs at the end. Episode 4: The Change Order
  5. Licensed trades and permitsFollow your local building rules: pull the permits they require and use licensed trades for electrical, plumbing and structural work. Shortcuts put the person's safety and the agency at risk. Episode 5: Permit First
  6. Keep the home safe during workThe person still lives in the home while you work. Keep their paths clear, put tools and cords away, and before leaving each day, make sure they can reach their bed, bathroom and exit safely. Episode 6: Clear the Way
  7. The person decidesThe modification is for the person who lives there. Listen to family, but the person makes the choices about their own home, guided by safety and their plan. Help them explain their decision if they'd like. Episode 7: His Home, His Choice
  8. No gifts for referralsNever accept gifts, cash or favors for sending program work to a supplier or provider. In government-funded programs, that can be a kickback, whatever the amount. Choose suppliers on price, quality and the person's needs, and follow your program's rules. Episode 8: The Gift Card
  9. Test it with the personBefore sign-off, have the person try the modification the way they'll really use it. Fix what doesn't work, photograph the finished job, and only then ask for a signature that confirms the work was done. Episode 9: Sign-Off
  10. Follow up and stand behind your workA modification isn't finished at sign-off. Check back on how it's working, honor your warranty, and fix problems quickly. Let the case manager know if the person's needs have changed. Episode 10: Six Months Later