Licensing Complaints

Most licensed child care programs offer safe and healthy environments. Occasionally, parents may need to report that a child care facility is not meeting licensing standards. Some of the most common licensing complaint types are:

Lack of adequate supervision
Insufficient nurturing and care
Unsafe facility environment
Inappropriate discipline
Lack of proper sanitation (and other health concerns)

If you suspect child abuse or neglect in a licensed child care facility, please contact 1-866- END HARM to report your concerns. Keeping Washington's children safe and healthy in licensed child care is a community-wide responsibility!

Complaint inspections by DEL

A Department of Early Learning (DEL) licensor will begin to take action on a complaint within five working days of the date the referral was received. The licensor will conduct an unannounced visit to a child care facility, observing the physical surroundings and the operation of the child care facility. The licensor also will review relevant on-site documentation. A licensor may also interview staff, parents, and the person who called in the complaint. The complaint is usually inspected and resolved within 45 days.

Investigations of Child Abuse and Neglect (DLR/CPS)

If a referral involves child abuse or neglect, the Department of Licensed Resources/Child Protective Services (DLR/CPS) at the Department of Social and Health Services will investigate the complaint. When there is a significant possibility that a child may be seriously physically or emotionally injured, DLR/CPS will have face-to-face contact with all identified alleged child victims within 24 hours. When a complaint does not involve immediate risk to children, DLR/CPS will interview all alleged child victims within 72 hours. The complaint is usually investigated and closed within 45 days.