Investing in Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) offers both financial returns and the opportunity to contribute positively to the community. However, the complexity of NDIS housing and the stringent design standards required to meet the needs of participants can be challenging. This article explores strategies to optimise your NDIS property investments while ensuring compliance with NDIS design standards.
Understanding NDIS Design Standards
The NDIS sets out specific design standards for SDA, ensuring properties are safe, accessible, and comfortable for people with disability. Compliance with these standards is crucial not only for eligibility for SDA funding but also for providing a high-quality living environment for NDIS participants.
Each SDA design category caters to different needs, ranging from Improved Liveability to High Physical Support. For instance, Improved Liveability dwellings enhance physical access and are suitable for individuals with intellectual, sensory, or cognitive impairments. These homes often feature task lighting and the absence of stairs to facilitate ease of navigation.
Robust housing is designed to withstand wear and tear, providing a safe environment for residents with challenging behaviours. This design category might include features like high-impact wall linings, laminated glass, and secure windows, ensuring durability and safety.
Fully Accessible homes cater to those with significant physical impairments, such as wheelchair users. These dwellings are designed with wide passages, no stairs, and access to bench tops from both seated and standing positions.
For those needing even more comprehensive support, High Physical Support housing incorporates all features of fully accessible homes and adds specialised elements like emergency power solutions, provisions for ceiling hoists, and communication technology readiness.
Key Strategies for Optimising NDIS Property Investments
1. Certify Your Dwelling at a Higher Design Level
One way to maximise your investment is by certifying your property at a higher design level, such as High Physical Support. This not only broadens your pool of potential tenants by catering to those who require improved liveability and full accessibility but also increases the property’s appeal in the market. However, it’s important to note that this approach may involve higher upfront costs due to the specialised design requirements.
2. Engage with Accredited SDA Assessors
Engaging with an accredited SDA Assessor early in the process can significantly reduce the risk of non-compliance. These assessors, who could be architects, access consultants, occupational therapists, or building surveyors, are responsible for issuing certificates of SDA design category compliance. Working with them during both the design and build stages ensures that your property meets the necessary standards for SDA enrollment.
3. Focus on Compliance and Market Demand
Compliance with the SDA standards is essential, but so is understanding the market demand. Researching areas with high demand for SDA can help you target your investment more effectively. Additionally, choosing a design category that aligns with the needs of the local NDIS participants can enhance your property’s attractiveness and occupancy rate.
4. Long-Term Sustainability
Sustainable design is crucial for the longevity and attractiveness of SDA properties. Considerations such as energy efficiency, durable materials, and adaptable spaces not only reduce ongoing maintenance costs but also ensure the property remains viable for the long term.
How NDIS Loan Experts Can Assist
At NDIS Loan Experts, we specialise in providing tailored finance solutions for property investments like NDIS housing. With over 15 years of experience in niche lending, our team is equipped to guide you through the complexities of SDA investments, from securing the right financing to ensuring compliance with all necessary standards. We understand the importance of building homes that meet the needs of NDIS participants while also offering solid returns for investors.
Supporting Your NDIS Investment to Meet Standards and Goals
Optimising NDIS property investments requires a strategic approach, with a strong focus on meeting NDIS design standards and understanding market demand. By certifying your dwelling at the appropriate design level, engaging with accredited assessors, and focusing on compliance and sustainability, you can maximise your returns while contributing to the well-being of NDIS participants.
Interested in learning more about how NDIS Loan Experts can support your investment journey? Contact us today for expert finance solutions.
