What should you confirm before moving day?
Moving into Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) involves more than packing boxes. This SDA move-in checklist covers the documents, household costs, accessibility checks and support arrangements to confirm before you settle into NDIS housing in Perth.
Ask your SDA provider for copies of every agreement before signing. Read the documents with a family member, advocate or support coordinator if any terms are unclear. Our guide to what happens after SDA approval explains the usual steps between approval and receiving your keys.
Confirm these details in writing:
- Your move-in date and key collection time
- The Reasonable Rent Contribution and payment method
- Any bond or rent paid in advance
- Which bedroom and shared areas you will use
- The process for reporting repairs
- House rules for visitors, pets and shared spaces
- Notice periods and contact details for urgent problems
SDA funding pays for the dwelling itself. You pay for water, electricity, gas and internet, in addition to your Reasonable Rent Contribution. The SDA provider remains responsible for building insurance and property maintenance.
What should you organise before moving into SDA?
Set up essential services early so they are working when you arrive. In Perth, electricity and internet connections can take several business days, particularly if a technician needs property access.
Use this timeline to keep tasks manageable:
| When | What to organise | Who to contact |
|---|---|---|
| Two weeks before | Utilities and internet | Your chosen providers |
| One week before | Support worker roster | SIL or support provider |
| Three days before | Medication and equipment | Pharmacy and suppliers |
| Moving day | Keys and condition report | SDA provider |
Pack important items separately from general household boxes. Keep identification, medication, chargers, communication devices, NDIS documents and emergency contacts where you can reach them easily.
If you receive Supported Independent Living services, confirm who will be present when you arrive. SDA and SIL are separate supports, so your housing provider may not manage your daily assistance. Read SDA vs SIL explained if you are unsure who is responsible for each service.
What should you check when you receive the keys?
Inspect the property before unpacking. Complete the condition report carefully and take dated photos of walls, floors, doors, appliances and any existing damage. Send corrections to the provider within the period stated in your agreement and keep a copy.
Check the accessibility features you rely on:
- Doors open fully and have enough clearance
- Ramps and pathways are free from trip hazards
- Grab rails and fixtures feel secure
- Benches, switches and storage are within reach
- Emergency exits are clear
- Bathroom drainage works correctly
- Heating, cooling and hot water operate properly
Test smoke alarms only as directed by the provider. Ask how emergency power, fire systems and evacuation procedures work in your specific home.
A property can meet an SDA design category while still being a poor personal fit. The questions in our Perth SDA inspection guide can help you identify problems before they affect daily life.
How should you test supports and smart home technology?
Test every support while someone is available to help. This includes door openers, smart locks, blinds, lighting, intercoms, environmental controls, call systems and charging points for mobility equipment.
Do not only test whether a device turns on. Check whether you can operate it from your usual position, whether voice commands recognise you and what happens during an internet or power outage. Record device names, access codes and provider contact numbers in a secure place.
Your first-day test should include:
- Entering and leaving the home independently
- Calling for assistance from the bedroom and bathroom
- Using lights, doors and climate controls
- Charging essential equipment
- Following the emergency exit route
Arrange training for you, your family and regular support workers. Keep a manual option available where possible. If a device stops responding, use these smart home troubleshooting steps before requesting technical support.
Your SDA move-in summary
A good move starts with written agreements, connected utilities and clear support responsibilities. Inspect the property before unpacking, document its condition and test every accessibility feature you depend on.
Keep this checklist with your tenancy documents and add contact details for your SDA provider, support provider and emergency contacts. For help preparing for NDIS housing or moving into SDA in Perth, contact the Innogreen team.