Complaint Investigation Report

Regarding Allegation: Licensee is not properly addressing insect infestation in facility

It was reported that there has been a recurring bed bugs problem in this facility. It was also reported that recently there is an infestation of roaches, but licensee is not properly addressing to resolve this pests issue. Interviews were conducted with four staff (S1-S4), five clients (C1-C5) and a witness (W1). Interviews with S1-S4 revealed a pest control company service the interior and exterior areas of the facility once a month for pests removal and protection. S1 and S2 admitted roaches have been observed in common areas and in client bedrooms. S3 and S4 stated a client bedroom was sprayed for bed bugs treatment about two months ago. During interviews with two clients (C1 and C2), a couple of roaches were recently observed in their bedrooms. Three clients (C3-C5) denied presence of any pests in their bedrooms and in the common areas. During LPA’s tour of the facility, LPA observed some empty client bedrooms have pest control service tags which shows that these bedrooms were serviced on 4/15/23. CB 80 and Transport insecticides were sprayed or applied in these bedrooms to kill pests. Interview with a witness revealed the facility has a month-to-month service contract with a pest control company. A witness (W1) stated this pest control company does not provide fumigation tenting for pests and therefore, the exterminators do not make such recommendation to clients even if necessary. Review of pest control company’s service reports revealed bed bugs treatment was provided to the facility on 4/5/2023 for client bedrooms 4A, 4B, 4D and 5D and all these rooms have bad smell. During year 2020, the facility was serviced monthly for ants, cockroaches and spiders. The facility continued to use the same pest control and treatment, but the pest issue keeps recurring. Based on gathered information, licensee failed to properly address the pest infestation due to the recurring pest infestation problem.

Based on interviews, observations, and supporting documentation, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met; therefore, the allegation, "Licensee is not properly addressing insect infestation in facility" is found to be SUBSTANTIATED.

According to the California Code of Regulations (Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 1,6), the following deficiency had been observed and a citation issued (ref. LIC 9099D).

An exit interview was conducted and copy of the Complaint Report and Appeal Rights were provided to the Administrator Marilee Cruz.