Written by Oliver Wakefield-Smith. Reviewed for accuracy against the Homecare Association's 2026/27 minimum-price report and Age UK's 2026 factsheets. Numbers verified 21 June 2026.
Seventeen questions to ask before you sign
Take this list to the first agency call. The questions are deliberately specific. The answers tell you more than the brochure ever will.
Money
- What is the published hourly rate, weekdays and weekends? Look for transparency.
- Is there a call-out or minimum-visit charge? Some add £4-£6 per visit on top.
- What is the bank-holiday rate? 1.5x is standard; 2x is high.
- How is mileage charged? If at all; some carriers charge per mile after the first visit.
- What is the notice period to end the contract? Four weeks is normal.
People
- How many different carers will my mum see in a typical week? Under three is good; over five is a flag.
- What training do carers have in dementia / Parkinson's / your specific need?
- How are carers paid for travel time? If they are not, visits get rushed.
- What is the carer turnover rate at this office?
- What is the carer-to-supervisor ratio?
Quality and oversight
- What is your CQC rating across the five domains? Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive, Well-led[18].
- When was your last CQC inspection? A two-year-old rating is less informative than a six-month-old one.
- What is the complaint route, and what is the average response time?
- Can I see a sample care plan?
- What happens when my regular carer is sick?
Practical
- What is the call-out time for an unscheduled need?
- Do you log visits electronically and can family see the log?