Operating a Day Care Center from Your Home

Operating a child care center outside your home is very costly, and may not be financially feasible
for most child care providers. As a matter of fact, many very successful child care centers are located
in the homes of the providers. The advantages of operating a center from your home are

• Fewer expenses
• Convenience for the provider and generally for the parents
• Lower overhead
• More flexible hours
• Proximity for provider to his or her family

There are, however, certain safety regulations that may require changes to the rooms you will be
using. Before you renovate and after you finish, have the licensing specialist and building inspector
visit your home. Their suggestions and recommendations can save you money.

You also are required to have adequate insurance protection for the center. If you don't have them
already, you will need fire and theft insurance for your home. If you have insurance, make sure your
policy covers the supplies and equipment that you purchase. You will also have to purchase liability
insurance to protect your center, staff and children. More detailed information on insurance is
provided in the insurance section.