Residential Care Apartment Complexes
New online licensure and certification system for health and residential care providers
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) is launching the DHS DQA Provider Portal, a new system for licensure, background checks, plan reviews, and other provider applications for assisted living facilities, adult day care centers, personal care agencies, and substance use and mental health treatment programs. Licensure/certification applications and plan review materials will not be accepted electronically or postmarked as of November 22, 2025, as we transition to the new system. We will accept applications and plan review materials starting December 15, 2025. Applications must be submitted using the DHS DQA Provider Portal. To prepare for this transition and for more information, visit our webpage.
Background check applications for all users
To prepare for the transition to the new DHS DQA Provider Portal, the Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) will not accept any new background check applications for entity operators, non-client residents, or other required individuals for new or renewing entity license/certification applications, or for rehabilitation review applicants as of November 22, 2025.
DQA will resume accepting background check applications on December 15, 2025, through the DHS DQA Provider Portal. To prepare for this transition and for more information, visit our webpage. Caregiver background checks completed by entities for employees and contractors are not affected by this transition.
Residential care apartment complexes (RCACs) are independent apartment units that provide services including:
- Room and board.
- Up to 28 hours per week of supportive care.
- Personal care.
- Nursing services.
Contact us
For questions regarding RCACs, contact the Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) Bureau of Assisted Living (BAL):
- Email dhsdqaballicensing@dhs.wisconsin.gov
- Call 608-266-8482
For questions about regulations, complaints, and compliance history of RCACs, you also can contact the DQA Bureau of Assisted Living Regional Offices.
Assisted Living Forum
The Assisted Living Forum brings together assisted living professionals in Wisconsin to discuss important issues and trends.
Assisted Living Survey Guide
DQA surveys assisted living facilities to review compliance with administrative codes, standards, and state statutes that apply to that facility. DQA also responds to complaints it receives against providers.
Opening a Residential Care Apartment Complex
Please review the application process if you are interested in opening a residential care apartment complex.
Child Care Program in a Long-Term Care Residential Facility
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Department of Health Services (DHS) have developed information to help providers start an on-site child care program to attract new workers and keep current staff.
Fire reporting
All fires in a licensed facility in Wisconsin must be reported to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) within 72 hours. To report a fire, complete and submit the Health Care Facility Fire Report, F-62500.
For questions regarding fire reporting, contact DQA Fire Authority:
- Email dhsdqaplanreview@dhs.wisconsin.gov
- Call 608-266-8016
Additional information is provided in DQA numbered memo 23-002 (PDF).