[2025 Latest Edition] Comprehensive Guide to Barrier-Free Renovation Examples, Subsidies, and Tax Reduction Programs!

"I'm considering barrier-free remodeling, but what areas should I renovate?"
"Are there any subsidies available for remodeling costs?"

For those considering barrier-free remodeling, deciding on renovation areas and costs can be a concern.

According to a survey by the real estate portal site "SUUMO," the cost and price range for remodeling with the aim of barrier-free access is under 3 million yen for detached houses and between 9 to 12 million yen for apartments (central cost range).

Reference: Cost and Price Range Information for Barrier-Free Remodeling｜SUUMO

However, the above is an approximate budget, and costs may vary depending on the renovation content.

This time, we will explain examples of barrier-free remodeling, budget considerations, and subsidy and tax reduction systems.

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1. What is Barrier-Free Remodeling?

Barrier-free remodeling refers to modifying home facilities and living spaces to allow individuals with physical disabilities to live comfortably.

General remodeling often focuses on improving design, functionality, and convenience. In contrast, barrier-free remodeling centers on considering the physical characteristics of disabled individuals to ensure they can live safely.

The purpose of general remodeling and barrier-free remodeling differs, which affects the renovation content and priority of implementation.

Additionally, barrier-free remodeling requires durability and safety to compensate for the physical barriers faced by disabled individuals.

For example, when installing handrails for the target user, using durable metal materials to enhance durability and safety or applying anti-slip coatings are some measures taken.

Barrier-free remodeling is an essential renovation in Japan's aging society.

Moreover, for families with disabled children, barrier-free remodeling can create an environment conducive to easier child-rearing.

Flat. also explains key points for creating a barrier-free home for disabled children, so if interested, please refer to the following article.

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2. Benefits of Barrier-Free Remodeling

2-1. Preventing Accidents at Home

Even in a long-familiar home, the risk of falls and injuries increases due to aging or disabilities.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's "2022 National Life Basic Survey," the causes that led to elderly care include dementia, cerebrovascular disease (stroke), and "fractures/falls" at 13.9%.

Additionally, a survey by the Consumer Affairs Agency revealed that 48% of fall accidents among those aged 65 and older occur at home.

To prevent such fall accidents at home, it is important to reduce the risk of injury through barrier-free remodeling.

Reference: 2022 National Life Basic Survey｜Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
Reference: October 10 is "Fall Prevention Day," Be Cautious of Fall Accidents Among the Elderly!｜Consumer Affairs Agency

2-2. Supporting Independence for the Disabled

Barrier-free remodeling also plays a role in promoting and supporting the independence of the elderly and disabled. For instance, eliminating steps allows wheelchair users to move smoothly without needing assistance.

What once required help from a caregiver can become achievable alone through barrier-free remodeling, marking a significant step towards independence for the disabled.

Moreover, increased independence can lead to improved physical activity and help maintain physical strength.

Barrier-free remodeling not only extends healthy life expectancy but also supports increasing the capabilities of the elderly and disabled.

2-3. Reducing the Burden on Family and Caregivers

Barrier-free remodeling can also reduce the burden on cohabiting family members and caregivers. For example, when assisting with toileting for the elderly or disabled, a narrow toilet can make movement difficult.

By ensuring sufficient space through remodeling, caregivers can provide support in an environment that reduces physical strain.

Additionally, eliminating steps and installing handrails can prevent falls for those being cared for, reducing the psychological burden on caregivers.

3. Examples and Cost Estimates of Barrier-Free Remodeling

The cost range for barrier-free remodeling varies depending on the areas and content of renovation. Here, we explain renovation examples and approximate budget considerations.

Please note that cost ranges may vary based on the pre-renovation condition, contractor, and scale of renovation, so use this information as a reference only.

3-1. Bathroom

Examples of bathroom renovations and cost estimates are as follows:

• Eliminating steps: 50,000–100,000 yen
• Replacing flooring: 100,000–200,000 yen
• Expanding bathroom space: 500,000–1,000,000 yen
• Door replacement: 50,000–200,000 yen
• Heating installation: 70,000–150,000 yen
• Handrail installation: 30,000–50,000 yen
• Bathtub replacement: 100,000–500,000 yen
• Adding a lift (depending on the type): 200,000–2,000,000 yen

In barrier-free bathroom remodeling, eliminating steps to prevent falls and replacing flooring with non-slip materials are common.

Additionally, since falls due to water droplets and steps are common, replacing doors with sliding or outward-opening types can facilitate quick rescue in case of an accident.

Furthermore, installing heating equipment to prevent heat shock and reduce temperature-related stress is key to comfortable bathing.

3-2. Toilet

Examples of barrier-free toilet remodeling and cost estimates are as follows:

• Converting from Japanese to Western style: 250,000–500,000 yen
• Expanding space: 150,000–350,000 yen
• Handrail installation (depending on type): 10,000–200,000 yen
• Replacing with sliding doors: 50,000–150,000 yen
• Installing a bidet toilet (with automatic cleaning): 100,000–300,000 yen

Toilets are frequently used and require complex movements such as sitting, standing, and bending. Converting from Japanese to Western style, which eliminates the need to squat, can enable elderly or disabled individuals to use the toilet independently.

Additionally, handrails are often installed in an L-shape to match the height of toileting movements.

For households with wheelchair users, replacing doors with sliding types and ensuring ample space is recommended.

3-3. Hallways and Stairs

Examples of barrier-free remodeling to ensure safety in hallways and stairs are as follows:

• Handrail installation: 10,000–150,000 yen
• Installing nightlights: 20,000–50,000 yen
• Expanding width: 400,000–1,000,000 yen
• Installing a lift: 600,000–2,000,000 yen
• Modifying stair gradient: 200,000–1,500,000 yen
• Installing anti-slip sheets: 20,000–50,000 yen

The cost of handrails in hallways and stairs varies based on the length installed. Installing nightlights with motion sensors can save on electricity costs.

Additionally, the standard dimensions for stairs that are easy for the elderly to climb are generally "riser height × 2 + tread depth = 60 cm".

The riser height refers to the height of the step, and for general housing, the Building Standards Act sets it at "23 cm or less." The tread depth refers to the vertical width of the step board, and for general housing, the Building Standards Act sets it at "15 cm or more."

Within the dimensions set by the Building Standards Act, the closer the total of the formula is to 60 cm, the easier it is for the elderly to climb stairs.

However, the angle and height of stairs that are easy to ascend and descend vary depending on the degree and characteristics of the disability, so caution is needed.

3-4. Entrance

Examples of barrier-free remodeling for entrances and cost estimates are as follows:

• Installing a ramp (varies by length and material): 60,000–500,000 yen
• Handrail installation: 10,000–150,000 yen
• Installing a chair: 10,000–100,000 yen
• Installing entrance storage: 50,000–400,000 yen
• Replacing entrance door with sliding type: 500,000–1,500,000 yen

The entrance, as the gateway to the home, involves many movements such as putting on and taking off shoes. Installing handrails or chairs to assist with putting on and taking off shoes can also promote independence for those being cared for.

Additionally, for households with wheelchair users, installing ramps and expanding space to store outdoor wheelchairs are practical examples of barrier-free remodeling.

The angle and length of ramps are defined by the Building Standards Act and the Barrier-Free Act, and they vary depending on whether they are for self-propulsion or assistance, so it is necessary to consider the usage environment.

3-5. Kitchen and Dining

Examples of barrier-free remodeling for kitchens and dining areas and cost estimates are as follows:

• Replacing kitchen unit (for wheelchair users): 500,000–1,500,000 yen
• Replacing flooring (varies by area): 100,000–300,000 yen
• Installing automatic faucets: 50,000–150,000 yen

Barrier-free kitchens and dining areas often cater to wheelchair users, aiming to make cooking and dining easier while seated.

Barrier-free kitchen units typically include shallow sinks, lower counters, and space under the sink, with unit prices ranging from 150,000 to 1,200,000 yen, depending on features.

Recently, models have been developed where the range hood and storage space can be operated with a single remote control, making cooking easier for users.

Replacing flooring with non-slip materials to prevent falls and slips varies depending on the type of flooring and the area to be replaced, so it is important to coordinate with contractors or construction companies in advance.

4. Is Barrier-Free Remodeling Possible in Apartments?

Basic barrier-free remodeling, such as installing handrails and eliminating steps, is possible in apartments. However, large-scale renovations that significantly change the layout or expand space are more challenging compared to detached houses.

Additionally, apartment remodeling requires prior approval from the management association. Check the resident management regulations and consider what kind of remodeling is possible.

A key consideration for barrier-free remodeling in apartments is eliminating steps in wet areas.

For example, in wet areas like bathrooms and toilets, there are often drainage pipes under the steps, and forcibly eliminating them can cause sewage to back up and prevent drainage. In such cases, large-scale work to adjust the overall floor height to the step to be eliminated is necessary.

5. Subsidy and Tax Reduction Systems for Barrier-Free Remodeling

There are subsidy and tax reduction systems for barrier-free remodeling.

Each system has its own eligibility conditions, so be sure to understand what systems are available before renovations.

5-1. "Housing Renovation Support" from Long-Term Care Insurance

If you are caring for a family member who has been certified for long-term care at home, you can use the "Housing Renovation Support" from long-term care insurance.

To be eligible, the family member must have received a certification of support level 1–2 or care level 1–5 and live in the home to be renovated.

If the person is in a hospital or facility, the system does not apply, but if there are plans to return home, it may be recognized as an exception.

The types of renovation work eligible for the housing renovation support system are as follows:

• Installing handrails
• Eliminating steps
• Replacing floors to prevent falls
• Converting to sliding doors
• Replacing with Western-style toilets
• Other necessary renovations according to living conditions

The subsidy amount is 70%–90% of the renovation cost, with the remaining 10%–30% being self-funded. The self-funded amount varies based on income, so please check your "Long-Term Care Insurance Burden Ratio Certificate" for details.

If the burden is 10%, the maximum subsidy amount is 200,000 yen, allowing for a maximum subsidy of 180,000 yen.

You do not need to use the maximum amount in one renovation, and you can claim in installments within the limit.

Additionally, the housing renovation support system generally has a lifetime limit of 200,000 yen, but if you move or if the care level increases by three levels or more, you can receive the subsidy again.

If you wish to use the housing renovation support system, it is recommended to first consult with your care manager.

Reference: Housing Renovation in Long-Term Care Insurance｜Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

5-2. Local Government Subsidies

In addition to the national long-term care insurance, there are subsidy systems provided by each municipality.

The conditions for local government subsidies vary, such as being applicable even without long-term care certification or being usable in conjunction with long-term care insurance.

Additionally, the subsidy amounts differ by region, and in some cases, renovations not covered by long-term care insurance, such as kitchen or bathroom work, may be eligible. Let's look at some examples of local government subsidy systems.

[Minato City, Tokyo]

• Preventive Benefits
Installation of handrails, elimination of steps, floor material changes, door replacements, toilet replacements, and other necessary work related to these
Subsidy limit: 200,000 yen
• Equipment Benefits
① Replacement of bathtubs and necessary water heating equipment, etc.
Subsidy limit: 379,000 yen
② Replacement of sinks, washbasins, and necessary water heating equipment, etc.
Subsidy limit: 156,000 yen
③ Conversion to Western-style toilets and necessary work
Subsidy limit: 106,000 yen

Source: Subsidy for Housing Renovation Costs for the Elderly (Services Outside Long-Term Care Insurance)｜Minato City

[Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture]
Subsidy Program for Housing Renovation for the Physically Disabled

Eligibility: Individuals with upper limb, lower limb, trunk, or visual disabilities of level 1–3
Households with a previous year's income tax of 75,000 yen or less
Eligible renovations: Bathroom, toilet, entrance, stairs, hallway, kitchen, washroom, etc.
Subsidy amount: Maximum subsidy limit of 700,000 yen (maximum subsidy amount is 630,000 yen)

Reference: Subsidy Program for Housing Renovation for the Physically Disabled｜Nagano City

As shown above, the content and subsidy amounts of systems vary greatly by municipality.

Regarding local government subsidy systems, it is advisable to first use the national long-term care insurance system for renovations and then apply to supplement any shortfalls.

However, since systems differ by municipality, those interested should first check the relevant systems on their local city or town's website.

5-3. Tax Reduction Systems

When conducting barrier-free remodeling, you can benefit from the following three major tax reduction systems:

1. Income tax deduction
2. Property tax reduction
3. Gift tax exemption

The income tax deduction, also known as the remodeling promotion tax reduction (special tax deduction for specific residential renovations), allows for a maximum deduction of 600,000 yen from income tax.

The property tax reduction applies when a home that has been newly built for over 10 years undergoes barrier-free remodeling with a construction cost of 500,000 yen or more, reducing the following year's property tax by 1/3.

The gift tax exemption applies when receiving funds for barrier-free remodeling from grandparents or parents, exempting up to 10 million yen from gift tax.

To receive these deductions and tax reductions, you will need a tax return and proof of the remodeling.

6. Three Cautions for Barrier-Free Remodeling

6-1. Consider the Physical Condition of the Target Person

In barrier-free remodeling, it is important to consider the physical condition of the target person when planning renovation content.

For example, when installing handrails, it is necessary to consider the position and height according to the target person's height and physical characteristics. For wheelchair users, it is necessary to ensure passage width, including the size of the wheelchair.

Additionally, the home should be comfortable not only for the target person but also for cohabiting family members.

For example, a kitchen height that is easy for the target person to use but difficult for cohabiting family members, causing them to bend and experience back pain, is counterproductive.

Therefore, it is ideal to proceed with remodeling in stages as needed rather than undertaking large-scale renovations all at once.

6-2. Consider Daily Living and Household Flow

Considering daily living flow when planning barrier-free remodeling is fundamental to achieving a comfortable life. Simplifying movement within the home allows for stress-free living.

For example, placing a washroom or toilet on the way from the bedroom to the living room upon waking up in the morning allows for a smooth daily routine.

Additionally, considering household flow, such as placing a laundry room near the washing machine, is key.

6-3. Hire an Experienced Contractor

Barrier-free remodeling often involves special construction content, such as eliminating steps and expanding spaces, which differ from general home renovations. Therefore, it is important to hire a contractor with experience in barrier-free renovation work.

Ayumi, which operates the barrier-free information site "Flat.," provides support for barrier-free renovation and construction through collaboration with construction and contracting companies.

Specific support includes introducing contractors strong in barrier-free construction and renovation, providing information on subsidies and grant systems, and offering advice on renovation content and drawings.

We also accept consultations for barrier-free remodeling of dining establishments. For more details on our services, please refer to the following page.

Reference: Barrier-Free Certification Business｜Ayumi
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7. Conclusion

This time, we have explained examples of barrier-free remodeling, costs, subsidies, and tax reduction systems.

It is important to consider the necessary areas for a comfortable life while understanding the approximate costs of construction and proceed with barrier-free modifications.

Additionally, by wisely utilizing systems such as tax reductions and subsidies, you can reduce the costs associated with remodeling.

If you are considering barrier-free remodeling, we recommend first listing your housing concerns and seeking advice from professionals or experts.