Contractor Information

By co-operating with Home Modification and Maintenance Services (HMMS) to provide assistance to someone who is frail aged or has a disability, Contractors are actively and practically enhancing a client’s lifestyle and often, that of their family. This is a very worthwhile undertaking!

Community-based not-for-profit organisations, HMMS are part of the HACC (Home and Community Care) Program which is jointly funded by State and Federal Governments. They provide modification and some maintenance work for people who are frail aged, those with disabilities and their carers so they may live more independently in the community and remain living at home. The major emphasis is on access, safety and independence.

Working with HMMS clients

The work Building Contractors or Specialist Tradespeople will be asked to provide is determined by the specific needs of our clients. These needs are established after careful assessment by an Occupational Therapist or a trained health professional who will assess the client's functional requirements.

Contractors play an important role in the delivery of services to HMMS clients. They will need to be aware that, in view of our clients' special needs and because of the nature of some disabilities, they may be required to demonstrate a certain understanding or compassion when dealing with clients that would not necessarily apply in a standard commercial contract situation.

Changes to Scope of Works 

It is imperative that no changes are made to the scope of works without the prior consent of the Qualified Works Supervisor of the HMMS and the referring Occupational Therapist.

Confidentiality 

When completing work for a client on behalf of HMMS, we ask that Contractors abide by the HMMS Confidentiality Agreement which they may be required to sign. Any personal aspect of the work should only be discussed with the relevant parties involved, e.g. the HMMS, the Contractor and their staff, the Occupational Therapist as well as the client.

Observing safe work practices in the homes of HMMS clients is extremely important. For example, Contractors should:

• ensure clients are not exposed to dust or chemicals;

• advise clients of any temporary hazards created by the building work;

• not stack materials in thoroughfares that might obstruct access for clients using wheelchairs or walking frames; and

• remove all waste and clean up upon completion of work

By keeping them informed, most clients will be happy to co-operate with Contractors to allow their modifications to proceed. Many clients will remain in their homes while the modification work is underway and will appreciate the minimum possible disruption during construction.

The Benefits for Contractors

Contractors to the HMMS industry will become aware that the work they perform has the ability to restore independence and provide a safer lifestyle for clients. They can also be assured of timely payment of accounts through the HMMS that engages them. It should be noted that Contractors are not permitted to accept payment from clients unless a prior arrangement or agreement has been made between the HMMS and the Contractor.

Once Contractors have established their competence with us, they may be considered a "preferred contractor" within our industry and this will mean repeat business for them. If any problems are encountered when working in our industry and assistance is required, the HMMS can provide Contractors with a back-up and support network at any time.

Statutory Requirements

As is the case with any work being carried out within the building industry, there are of course certain rules that have to be observed and standards to be met.

Each HMMS will ask Contractors to provide the following documentary evidence to ensure that statutory obligations are maintained:

• current Contractor's licence;

• current Policy of Public and Professional Liability Insurance ($20,000,000); and

• a completed WorkCover Sub-Contractor's Statement regarding Workers Compensation, Payroll Tax and Remuneration

For those Contractors carrying out asbestos removal, they will be asked to provide evidence that they are suitably qualified and experienced licensed Asbestos Removal Contractors with either a:

• Bonded Asbestos Removal AS2 Licence; or a

• Bonded and Friable AS1 Licence.

HMMS will keep the following information on file and will update it each year:

• Licence details

• Insurance details and Certificates of Currency

Contractors will need to demonstrate implementation and observance of safe work practices as defined by the relevant Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 including all updates to the Act.

HMMS are granted an exemption for Home Owners Warranty Insurance by the Office of Fair Trading. The exemption has been effective from 1 September 2004 under the Home Building Regulation 2004 (Clause 76) which applies to all HMMS or Contractors engaged by them to provide modifications for HACC clients.

Likewise, many local Councils are aware of our not-for-profit status and offer a discount on or, in some instances, waive building and development fees. Contractors will be advised of the above prior to commencing any work for which they might be the successful tenderer.

Police Checks 

All Contractors who are engaged by HMMS to complete work for HMMS clients must have a police check. This ensures the continued safety of our clients in their homes. A Contractor's refusal to have a police check may result in the termination of their services.