Safety guide: Out-of-home care

Step 1

Start with online research

Read reviews from other Care.com customers. Each review includes a rating, plus comments on the family’s experience with the business.
Perform your own independent research on each business. Search for news articles on the web, check social media and visit review websites such as Trustpilot, Sitejabber and the Better Business Bureau.
Make sure each business is up to date on all necessary licensing. Licensing requirements vary by type of care and by state, but you can contact your state’s Department of Licensing to learn more about the guidelines and check licensing status.

Step 2

Make a visit to see for yourself

An in-person visit helps you get a feel for a place that online research might not. Schedule a time to visit and meet the director and caregivers, and trust your eyes, ears, and instincts.
Ask about employee training, certifications, and the types of background checks they run. Make sure the staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to those receiving care. Check to see if the facility is clean and well-maintained.
Tour the facility several times before making a decision. Make a surprise visit to observe the staff and environment. It could be a red flag if a business doesn’t let you stop by without an appointment.

Step 3

Narrow down your choices

Conduct reference checks on your top choices by talking to current and past clients. Would they recommend the business to a friend? Have they had any issues? Then see if they’re accredited by industry-leading organizations. These organizations have higher than average standards, so if a business is accredited, it’s a strong indicator that it’s well run.