Does DSHS Pay for Home Modifications? Here's What Washington Residents Need to Know

Many Pierce County homeowners are surprised to learn that accessibility modifications — ramps, grab bars, widened doorways, roll-in showers — may be covered through Washington State DSHS or a Medicaid waiver program, at little or no out-of-pocket cost to the client. Banah Home Services is a DSHS-authorized provider, which means we work directly within these programs to complete approved modifications for eligible residents.

What DSHS and Medicaid Waiver Programs Actually Cover

Washington's Department of Social and Health Services administers several programs that fund home modifications for qualifying individuals — including older adults, people with disabilities, and those receiving Medicaid-funded in-home care. The goal is to help people remain safely in their own homes rather than transition to a care facility.

 

Modifications commonly funded through these programs include:

 

  • Wheelchair ramps and exterior access improvements
  • Grab bars and safety rails in bathrooms and hallways
  • Doorway widening to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility aids
  • Roll-in shower conversions
  • Threshold removal and flooring transitions
  • Stair lifts and vertical platform lifts (in some cases)

 

Funding availability and scope depend on the specific waiver program, the individual's care plan, and DSHS approval. Not every modification is automatically covered — but working with an authorized contractor is the first step toward understanding what your plan will support.

Why "DSHS-Authorized" Matters When Choosing a Contractor

DSHS does not allow just any contractor to perform funded modifications. Providers must be authorized through the department, which involves credentialing, compliance requirements, and accountability standards that general contractors don't carry.

 

Banah holds DSHS-authorized provider status — one of the few remodeling contractors in Pierce County to do so. That means we can receive referrals directly through the DSHS system, coordinate with case managers, and complete work that qualifies for program reimbursement. If you hire a contractor who isn't authorized, the work almost certainly won't be eligible for DSHS or Medicaid waiver funding, regardless of what was built.

How the Process Works for Clients

Understanding how DSHS-funded modifications move from approval to completion helps set realistic expectations. Here's how Banah typically works within the program:

1. Eligibility and Referral

The client or their family contacts DSHS, a care coordinator, or a Medicaid waiver case manager. The case manager assesses the individual's needs and determines whether home modifications are appropriate under their care plan.

2. Authorization and Scope

DSHS or the waiver program issues an authorization for specific modifications. The scope of work is defined before any contractor is engaged — this protects the client and ensures the work qualifies for funding.

3. Contractor Selection

The client selects a DSHS-authorized contractor. Banah can be requested by name, or referred through the program. We review the authorization, confirm the scope, and provide any documentation required by the case manager.

4. Installation and Documentation

Our team completes the approved modifications. We document every phase with daily photos through CompanyCam, providing a clear record for case managers, the client's family, and program administrators.

5. Completion and Billing

Upon completion, billing goes through the appropriate DSHS or waiver channel. In most cases, the client pays nothing out of pocket for authorized work.

What If I'm Not Sure Whether I Qualify?

Eligibility for DSHS home modification funding is determined by DSHS and your care coordinator — not by the contractor. That said, we're familiar with the programs and can help you understand what to ask when you reach out to your case manager.

 

General eligibility factors include:

 

  • Receiving Medicaid or a Medicaid-funded waiver program in Washington State
  • Having a documented disability, mobility limitation, or care need that makes home modifications medically necessary
  • Living in the home where modifications would be made
  • Having a care plan that identifies home modification as a support need

 

If you're unsure where to start, contacting the Washington State DSHS Home and Community Services division is the right first step.

Accessibility Modifications We Perform Under DSHS Authorization

Our team handles the full range of modifications that DSHS and Medicaid waiver programs commonly authorize. Every project is completed by our in-house specialists — not subcontracted out — with the documentation and accountability the program requires.

 

Explore the specific modifications we perform:

 

Frequently Asked Questions About DSHS Home Modification Funding

  • Does DSHS pay for home modifications in Washington State?

    Yes, in many cases. Washington DSHS administers programs — including Medicaid waiver programs — that fund accessibility modifications for eligible individuals. Eligibility is based on your care plan, disability status, and the specific program you're enrolled in. A DSHS case manager or Home and Community Services representative can confirm whether you qualify.

  • Do I need to use a specific contractor for DSHS-funded work?

    Yes. DSHS requires that modifications funded through its programs be completed by an authorized provider. Banah Home Services holds DSHS-authorized provider status in Pierce County, which means we can perform and bill for work covered under these programs.

  • What is the difference between DSHS funding and a Medicaid waiver?

    DSHS administers both its own programs and several Medicaid waiver programs in Washington. Medicaid waivers — such as the Community First Choice and COPES programs — are federally funded through Medicaid and administered locally by DSHS. Both can fund home modifications, but the specific scope and authorization process varies by program.

  • How long does it take to get DSHS approval for home modifications?

    Authorization timelines vary depending on your care coordinator, program type, and the complexity of modifications requested. Once authorization is issued, Banah moves quickly to schedule and complete the work. We keep clients and case managers informed throughout the process.

  • Can veterans use DSHS funding for home modifications?

    Veterans may have access to multiple funding sources — including DSHS and Medicaid waiver programs if they qualify, as well as VA-specific programs like the Specially Adapted Housing grant. Banah is a veteran-owned company and can help veteran clients and their families understand what programs may apply to their situation.

Talk to Us Before You Assume You Don't Qualify

DSHS-funded home modifications are underused in Pierce County, largely because families don't realize the programs exist or assume the process is too complicated to navigate. We've helped clients complete modifications they assumed they'd have to pay for out of pocket — or go without entirely.

 

If you or a family member has a disability, mobility limitation, or aging-in-place need, reach out. We'll help you understand what programs may apply and what the next step looks like.