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834 Chapter 4:Working with families • Section 11: Home visits (07/2026) Things to remember When conducting a home visit, it is important to be as prepared as possible. However, if questions arise that cannot be answered without additional research or verification, inform the family that they can expect an answer when staff are back in the office. Safety is something to be aware of when conducting home visits. Some things to keep in mind: • Be aware of any details that may affect the visit, such as previous domestic violence, pets in the home, remote location, or a history of mental health or substance use. • Observe the surroundings; watch for potential safety issues or hazards on the property. • Staff should always trust their instincts. If at any time a person feels unsafe, they should excuse themselves from the appointment. Home visiting best practices When planning the home visit: • Read narratives and review the case information before the home visit. • Be aware of any cultural considerations that may affect the home visit. • Contact the family, explain the purpose and benefits of the visit, and set up a convenient time. It may also be beneficial to remind the family the day before the visit. • Make a travel plan that considers the location, schedule a state car, and follow local processes for notifying the office of your home visit. • Gather the important information you will need on the home visit, such as:
Questions or information to discuss with the participant
Any forms or resources you want to share
State identification and business cards. Note: Do not take the case file or records from the office. When conducting the home visit: • Remember that this is the family’s home. Show respect for them and their belongings at all times. • Even if the home visit is scheduled in advance, at the point of the home visit, ask the participant if it is a good time. • Ask for or wait for permission to enter before going into the residence. • Ask who else may be in the house. • If asked to leave at any time, respect that request and leave immediately. When returning to the office after the home visit: • Follow your office procedures for checking in. • Document the home visit in TRACS. • Follow up on things learned at the home visit or agreements you made with the family.