What to ask when you visit a home

The provider

• Is the provider registered with the NDIS Commission? (You can check the Commission's register.)
• Who owns or manages the home, and who provides the support? Are they the same organisation?
• How long has the provider run this home?

Support and support workers

• How many support workers are on shift during the day and evening?
• Is someone here overnight, and are they awake or sleeping over?
• Do the same support workers work here regularly, and how are new ones introduced?
• What training do support workers have, for example first aid and CPR?
• Can we see the roster of care, including how irregular support days work?

Housemates and daily life

• Who lives here now, and how are new housemates matched?
• Can we meet the housemates, or arrange a meet-and-greet or transition stay?
• How does a usual day go? Is the house quiet or busy?
• How are meals planned, and can residents cook or help?
• Which house rules apply to visitors, overnight guests, pets and smoking?

The home itself

• Does the layout work: hallways, steps, bathrooms, bedrooms and outdoor space?
• For SDA, what is the design category and what features does the home have?
• How close are public transport, shops, health services and family?
• What do residents bring themselves, such as furniture and bedding? Is there a vehicle?

Costs and agreements

• How much are the rent, board and bills each fortnight, and what do they cover?
• When would rent start, and when would we receive the tenancy and service agreements?
• What happens to support if a housemate moves out?
• Who do we talk to if we have a concern or complaint?

After the visit

Compare your notes across homes while they're fresh, and talk them through with the person who'd live there and their support coordinator. If you're unsure, ask for a second visit or a short transition stay before deciding.