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Healthy homes for independent living checklist

Outside of a lit up home in the evening, with path, decking and garden area.
A change in living arrangements, general wear and tear, or changing needs can create the need to update the safety, security and comfort of your home.

This list is intended as an initial guide to help you identify areas in your home that may require attention as circumstances change.

Comfort levels (effective heating and cooling)

Keeping your home at a suitable temperature with plenty of ventilation is important for comfort and safety. Check the following:

  • Do you have the right quantity and level of insulation to maintain comfortable temperatures?
  • Are there internal and external window coverings to minimise glare and help maintain temperature levels?
  • Are there gaps under doors and windows that need to be filled?
  • Is there adequate heating and cooling?

Airconditioning.

Home safety (automated lighting and power controls)

Automated functions to set and manage lighting and power will provide you with increased safety and security. Check the following:

  • Is there adequate light?
  • Are light switches easy to reach?
  • Are important areas well lit?
  • Do passageways have night lights?
  • Are there sensor lights at major entry points of the home?
  • Are there remote controlled power outlets?
  • Have kill switches been installed (power turned on/off by dedicated remote control)?
  • Is the hot water system temperature set appropriately?

Mobile phone in hand with app open.

Home security and safety (security, smoke alarms, stove alarms and fire safety)

Home security systems include remote viewing capabilities and keyless locks that offer added security. Check the following:

  • Is there adequate security on outside doors and windows?
  • Are there working smoke alarms in place?
  • Is there a carbon monoxide alarm?
  • Is there a fire extinguisher or fire blanket?
  • Are any objects stored above the stove?
  • Are ramps required for easy access to doorways?

Alarm system with keypad and persons hand keying in a number.

Independent living (grab rails, taps, flooring, storage and garden)

Simple additions and changes to your home can significantly reduce health and safety hazards. Check the following:

  • Are grab rails available at the major entry points of the dwelling?
  • Are grab rails available near the bath, shower and toilet?
  • Are floors and surfaces slippery (indoor and outdoor)?
  • Is the shower head easy to adjust?
  • Are taps easy to turn on and off?
  • Are door handles easy to turn?
  • Are cupboard and drawer handles easy to use?
  • Are frequently used items easy to access?
  • Are garden beds easy to access?
  • Is there an automated garden watering system?

Hand grab rails and a person marking out dimensions with a builder's pencil.

More ideas for a healthy home?

Find more great ideas to make your home a healthy home

 

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.