Care home viewing checklist: questions to ask
A visit helps you compare more than a care-home rating or brochure. Use this checklist to focus on the person's needs, the daily experience and the practical details that should be confirmed in writing.
Prepare before you go
Take the current care plan, a list of medicines and notes on what matters most to the person. Ask whether the home can support those needs now and if circumstances change.
Compare written answers
After each visit, record what was confirmed about care, staffing, fees and availability. This helps families compare like with like and follow up on gaps.
| Area | What to look for | Question to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Care and staffing | How needs are understood and supported | How will you create and review the care plan? |
| Daily life | Meals, activities, visitors and routines | How can the person keep familiar routines? |
| Environment | Cleanliness, accessibility and atmosphere | Can we visit at another time of day? |
| Fees | Included services and possible extras | Can we have a written fee and contract breakdown? |
Frequently asked questions
Look at whether the environment feels safe, clean and welcoming, and ask how the home supports the person's individual needs, routines, relationships and activities.
Need help understanding your options?
Use the information above to prepare questions, then confirm availability, suitability and costs directly with any provider or adviser.
Explore care options