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Setting up a domiciliary care agency in England? If you plan to offer personal care services, you must register with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This guide will walk you through the essential steps of CQC registration for domiciliary care, helping you avoid delays and ensuring your application meets the legal requirements from day one. If you’re researching how to start a care agency, CQC registration is one of the first—and most important—steps to get right.
What Is Domiciliary Care?
Domiciliary care, also known as homecare, involves supporting people in their own homes with tasks like washing, dressing, eating, and managing medication. If your service includes these types of care, it’s classed as a regulated activity under the Health and Social Care Act 2008.
Do I Need to Register with the CQC?
Yes — if your agency provides personal care, you are legally required to register with the CQC before delivering any services. Operating without registration is an offence.
You must also register if you are:
- An individual provider
- A registered partner
- A registered manager
Learn more: CQC Scope of Registration
Step-by-Step Guide to CQC Registration for Domiciliary Care
- Understand Your Legal Responsibilities
You and your team must be familiar with:
The Health and Social Care Act 2008
Regulations for service providers and managers
The Mental Capacity Act 2005 and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards
You’ll be expected to demonstrate how you’ll meet the fundamental standards of care throughout the registration process. - Ensure the Right Qualifications and Experience
For a successful application:
Your registered manager should have recent experience in regulated care and hold a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care or equivalent.
Providers and managers must understand complaints handling, safeguarding, mental capacity assessments, and medication safety. - Complete DBS Checks Early
Before you apply, all key personnel — including providers, partners, and managers — must complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. These can take up to 14 days or more, so start early.
DBS Check Guidance - Secure Suitable Premises
Even though care is delivered in people’s homes, you need a main office location in England to manage operations. PO Boxes are only allowed if part of a full physical address. Overseas addresses are not accepted.
- Submit the Right Supporting Documents
Your application must include the following domiciliary policies and procedures:
Consent
Equality, Diversity and Human Rights
Governance
Infection Control
Medicines Management
Recruitment
Safeguarding
Statement of Purpose
If you plan to support people with autism or learning disabilities, refer to Right support, right care, right culture guidance.
Supporting Documents Guide - Create a Strong Business Plan and Financial Forecast
Your business plan should show:
Company background and structure
Target service user bands
Local market research
Pricing strategy
Financial forecast for the first 12 months
Tip: Provide evidence of local demand, competitor research, and clear service delivery plans. - Develop a Detailed Complaints Policy
This must include:
How users can complain
Named contact details
Steps you’ll take to resolve issues
How you use feedback to improve
Also, show compliance with:
Regulation 16: Receiving and acting on complaints
Regulation 20: Duty of candour
Equality Act 2010 and UK GDPR - Include a Service User Guide
Explain:
What services you offer (and don’t offer)
How care needs are assessed
Pricing and contract terms
How users can raise concerns or complaints - Submit a Staff Training Plan
Outline:
Induction and mandatory training (including the Care Certificate)
Role-specific and specialist training
Support for overseas staff
Training providers and refresh schedules - Provide Insurance and Legal Occupancy Evidence
Submit:
Public/employer liability insurance documents
Proof of ownership or a lease/license agreement for your office
Written permission from landlord/mortgage provider if required
Application Process: Key Stages
Stage One: Initial Checks
CQC checks your application is complete and includes all required documents.
Stage Two: In-Depth Assessment
Includes interviews with you and your manager and possibly an inspection of your premises.
You cannot provide regulated care until you receive official registration confirmation.
Real-Life Examples
Application Refused:
A provider submitted an incomplete business plan and lacked care experience. The proposed manager had insufficient qualifications and couldn’t explain how the policies would be implemented.
Application Approved:
The manager had over 5 years of experience, a strong financial plan, and adapted domiciliary policies and procedures tailored to their service. Training plans and quality assurance systems were clearly outlined.
Final Tips for Success
- Use CQC’s checklist before submitting.
- Label documents clearly.
- Ensure every form is complete and signed.
- Email your full application to: HSCA_applications@cqc.org.uk
Conclusion
Registering with the CQC is a vital step for any homecare provider delivering personal care. By following the official guidance and submitting a complete, well-evidenced application, you increase your chances of a successful and timely registration.
For more information on CQC Registration for Domiciliary Care: A Complete Guide talk to W&P Compliance Centre