Change or add to your public housing home

Alterations that require approval include all of the following:

• picture hooks
• curtains or blind brackets
• irrigation systems
• installing carpet
• painting - in neutral colours only
• removing trees
• concrete paving
• air conditioning
• heating
• outside shade areas
• garden shed
• satellite dish
• cage, enclosure, fence or other structure for pets
• power card box
• security or movement sensor light
• changing locks
• security screens
• electrical or plumbing changes
• handrails or ramps
• modifying the property's structure or condition.

Air conditioners are not added to new or existing houses.

You must pay for all costs of buying and installing a new air conditioner including all of the following:

• materials
• wiring and additional circuit breakers
• ongoing maintenance
• removal and repair of damage caused when you move out.

Carpet is unsuitable for public housing as it is difficult to clean.

Approval for carpet will only be given if you take the carpet out when you move out.

You won't be given permission to install a swimming pool or spa.

The department does not approve installing any of the following at any public housing property:

• in-ground pools
• above ground pools
• portable pools that hold water to a depth of 30 centimetres or more
• spa pools
• fish ponds.

Read more about swimming pool fencing and barrier safety standards.

To apply for permission to make an alteration or addition to your public housing rental property, follow these steps:

Step 1. Fill in the form.
Alteration and additions form PDF (790.2 KB)
Alteration and additions form DOCX (592.1 KB)

Step 2. Provide drawings and/or plans of proposed alterations or additions.

Step 3. Provide certification of the changes if necessary.

Step 4. Submit it to your local housing office.

If your request is approved you will be sent written approval including any conditions.

You must return the property to its original condition.

You must pay to fix alterations or additions that are not of a professional or reasonable standard, or fix any damage caused by the alteration.

This is different from reporting any maintenance or repairs.