The SDA OT housing assessment explained
What an occupational therapist's SDA housing assessment covers, why it's the key evidence, and how to prepare for it
What is an SDA OT housing assessment?
What does the OT look at?
How does the OT choose a design category?
How to prepare for your SDA OT assessment
What happens after the OT hands over the report?
What a strong SDA OT report contains
Common reasons SDA OT evidence gets knocked back
Who pays for the assessment, and how to book a good OT
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an OT assessment for SDA?
In almost all cases, yes. An occupational therapist's SDA housing assessment is the key evidence the NDIA uses to decide SDA eligibility and the design category. Applications without a robust OT report are rarely approved.
What does an SDA OT assessment cover?
It documents your functional capacity and disability-related needs at home — mobility, transfers, personal care, overnight safety and behaviours — and explains why a specialist dwelling, not just home modifications, is required, then recommends an SDA design category.
How does an OT decide my SDA category?
The OT matches your evidence to one of the four categories: Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, Robust, or High Physical Support. Features like ceiling hoists point to High Physical Support; a resilient build points to Robust; full wheelchair access without high-support needs points to Fully Accessible.
How do I prepare for an SDA OT assessment?
Gather supporting reports, keep a diary of the hardest parts of your day at home, have someone present who sees your needs, be honest about your worst days, and ask the OT which category they're recommending and why.
Can I choose my own OT for SDA?
Yes, if you're plan- or self-managed you can choose any OT; agency-managed plans use registered providers. Either way, pick an OT experienced specifically in SDA assessments, because SDA has its own evidence rules.
Who pays for the SDA OT housing assessment?
It is usually funded from your Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living budget, because you need the assessment before SDA can be approved. If you do not have OT hours in your plan, your support coordinator can help you request them, and self- or plan-managed participants can engage a suitable OT directly.
How long does an SDA OT assessment take?
The home visit itself often runs a few hours, but the written report and the NDIA decision that follows can take from several weeks to a few months. A complete, well-structured evidence pack generally moves faster than one the NDIA has to send back for more information.
What if the NDIA disagrees with the OT's recommended category?
The NDIA can decide a different design category, or decline SDA, even with an OT report. If that happens you can ask for the reasons, supply further evidence, and request an internal review of the decision. A support coordinator or advocate can help you challenge a category that does not match your assessed needs.