Begin with the person, not the property
Ask what the homeowner wants to keep doing independently and which tasks feel difficult. Family members may notice problems, but the person living there should be involved in priorities and decisions.
Check arriving and leaving
Review the car space, gate, path, entrance and door operation. Note steps, thresholds and areas that are awkward in poor light or wet weather. These observations help describe the issue to an assessor; they are not a safety certification.
Review the bathroom and toilet
Consider entry, shower use, controls, seating, support and the space to move. A different fixture may not solve a layout problem. Seek individual advice before selecting support products or deciding transfer arrangements.
Follow the bedroom route at night
Look at the route to the bathroom, switches, door operation and furniture. Discuss visibility and reach as well as clear space. The layout should be considered with the actual bed and equipment in place.
Include kitchen and laundry routines
Check the tasks the person wants to continue, including storage, appliance operation and moving items. Avoid assuming the entire room needs replacement before understanding which actions are difficult.
Separate now, next and later
Create three categories: needs that require assessment now, work that could fit a planned renovation and longer term ideas. This supports a staged brief without buying every possible feature at once.
Prepare the project conversation
Gather the address, priorities, timeframe and any relevant professional recommendations. Ask about the building assessment, who will contract the work and how disruption is managed. Funding enquiries should begin with the relevant program or provider.