(1) All requests for records will be issued by an authorized representative of the director, such as auditors, investigators, program staff, or other designee.

(2) Requests for records, documents or detailed explanations shall be in writing, by regular mail, facsimile, electronic mail, or in person pursuant to an investigation.

(3) The investigator will not request documents or explanations by telephone unless the telephone request is followed by a request in writing. In the case of a request for records or documents, a licensee will not be charged for failure to cooperate with the department unless the investigator has made a written request for records or documents that the licensee is required to keep, and has described the records or documents with sufficient specificity to notify the licensee of what records or documents are being sought.

(4) An investigator may inspect a licensee's licensed business location and records without a warrant pursuant to an investigation approved or assigned by the director or designee between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding state holidays, or during the hours of an appointment agreed to with the licensee. Licensees are advised that refusal to permit access may result in disciplinary action under chapters 18.85 and 18.235 RCW. An investigator may not forcibly enter a licensed business location unless accompanied by law enforcement personnel pursuant to a valid search warrant.