PDFWAC 388-829C-320
What are the physical and safety requirements for companion homes?
(1) A companion home must:
(a) Be accessible to the client;
(b) Provide the client direct, unrestricted access to all common areas;
(c) Have adequate space for mobility aids, such as a wheelchair, walker, or lifting device;
(d) Have unblocked exits;
(e) Be maintained, inside and outside, in a safe and healthy manner free from hazards;
(f) Safely store flammable and combustible materials;
(g) Have a working smoke detector, located close to the client's bedroom, that meets the client's specialized needs, including any vision or hearing loss;
(h) Have a five-pound 2A:10B-C fire extinguisher;
(i) Have a first-aid kit;
(j) Provide the client access to a telephone;
(k) Provide the client access to a working flashlight or alternative light source;
(l) Display emergency contact information in a manner accessible to the client;
(m) Display an evacuation plan, which must be practiced monthly with the client;
(n) Have a railing for any patio, deck, porch, or balcony when required by local building codes; and
(o) Have a railing for any patio, deck, porch, or balcony more than 12 inches off the ground when identified as a safety need in the client's person-centered service plan.
(2) The companion home client must have a private bedroom with:
(a) A door that locks from the inside, unless the client's person-centered service plan indicates that it is unsafe for the client to have a locking door; and
(b) An exit that does not rely solely on a window, ladder, folding stairs, or trap door.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 71A.12.030, 71A.12.040, 71A.12.110, and 71A.12.120. WSR 25-11-093, s 388-829C-320, filed 5/21/25, effective 7/1/25. Statutory Authority: RCW 71A.12.030, 71A.10.020 and 71A.12.040. WSR 18-22-106, § 388-829C-320, filed 11/6/18, effective 12/7/18. Statutory Authority: RCW 71A.12.30 [ 71A.12.030] and Title 71A RCW. WSR 07-16-102, § 388-829C-320, filed 7/31/07, effective 9/1/07.]