Here is a way to look at the apartment where you might want to live. It will help you decide what is good about the apartment and what could be better.
The best way to use this checklist is as follows:
1. Make sure you get a chance to view the apartment and the immediate neighborhood.
2. If you need assistance with the checklist, ask you Community Support Coordinator or someone else you feel comfortable with.
3. Write notes about what you find out about the apartment in the box provided.
4. Think about all of these things before you decide if you want to live in the apartment or not.
5. You may be looking at several different apartments - use this checklist to decide which apartment is best for you.
1. The apartment is close to stores, banks, places to eat and other resources I will need.
2. The apartment is clean inside and outside.
3. The apartment is in an area of my choice.
4. The apartment is near and easily accessible to bus routes.
5. The neighborhood feels safe, and I'm comfortable when I leave my apartment.
6. The rooms in the apartment are spacious and wheelchair accessible, if needed.
7. The apartment is in good repair.
8. I can afford the deposit required by the apartment.
9. The rental agreement is a: month to month lease and I am comfortable with this arrangement.
10. I have read over the rental agreement or had someone assist me to understand it.
11. The stove is gas or electric and it works well.
12. There is a refrigerator that works well.
13. There is a dishwasher that works well.
14. The heater/air conditioner works well.
15. A credit check is required: Refundable Non-refundable
16. The neighbors are friendly and supportive.
17. IHSS referral has been made.
18. Everyone who lives in the apartment has agreed upon "house rules".
19. I am comfortable with the level of privacy I will have there.
20. The apartment complex, if needed, is wheel chair accessible with ramps and enough space to get through gates.
Excerpted from Patterns of Supported Living: A Resource Catalogue; Developed for the California Department of Developmental Services by Allen, Shea & Associates and Claudia Bolton Forrest, 1780 Third Street, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 258-1326, 6/93.