(a)

1. (1) To determine a recommendation for registration, the applicant’s home shall be reviewed by a childcare licensing specialist to determine that the home is in substantial compliance with the requirements.

2. (2) Clarification.

   1. (A) In addition to rooms used for care, childcare licensing staff must also be given access to all other rooms or spaces not used for child care.
   2. (B) Any rooms or areas that are not accessible to children in care:

(i) Will only be viewed briefly for major health and safety issues; and

1. (ii) Will not be routinely monitored for general licensing compliance.

   1. (C) This is to help ensure that there are no dangers such as fire hazards that could impact the safety of the entire structure.

(b)

1. (1) Substantial compliance means compliance with all essential standards necessary to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the children attending the registered home.

2. (2) Essential standards include, but are not limited to, those relating to issues involving:

   1. (A) Fire;
   2. (B) Health;
   3. (C) Safety;
   4. (D) Nutrition; and
   5. (E) Behavior management.