If a report has been made against you to Michigan Child Protective Services (CPS), it’s normal to feel anxious or overwhelmed. A CPS investigation can be incredibly intrusive and emotionally draining, especially when you’re not sure what to expect.
When there is a report of child abuse or neglect, Michigan CPS normally begins an investigation within 24 hours. Investigations may include an unannounced home visit by a CPS investigator or caseworker.
Understanding what CPS is looking for during a home visit can help you prepare and protect your family. Here’s what you need to know.
What Do Michigan CPS Investigators Look for During a Home Visit?
When CPS conducts a home visit in Michigan, its investigators are trained to evaluate the living environment for any signs of abuse, neglect, or unsafe conditions. Knowing what caseworkers assess during these visits can help you prepare and protect yourself and your family.
Below is a breakdown of some of the most common CPS home visit checklist items in Michigan:
1. Home Cleanliness and Sanitation
CPS caseworkers in Michigan will inspect the general condition of your home to determine if it’s safe and healthy.
- Are there large piles of trash?
- Are there signs of rodent or insect infestation?
- Are there foul or strong odors (such as cigarette smoke, mold, or pet waste)?
- Are the kitchen and bathroom sanitary?
Keeping a clean and safe home environment is essential during any CPS abuse or neglect investigation in Michigan.
2. Food Supply and Nutrition
Michigan CPS workers look for signs that your children are well-fed and that nutritious food is readily available.
- Do your refrigerator and pantry have an adequate amount of food for the children to be properly fed?
Inadequate food supply can be cited as evidence of neglect.
3. Child Sleeping Arrangements
Proper and safe sleeping arrangements are an important focus during a CPS home assessment in Michigan.
- Does each child have their own bed?
- Are infants under 18 months sleeping in cribs?
- Are bunk beds equipped with guardrails?
- Are opposite-sex siblings over age 5 sleeping in different rooms?
Unsafe or inappropriate sleeping conditions are common red flags in child welfare investigations.
4. Household Safety Hazards
Michigan CPS evaluates your home for any dangers that could lead to injury or harm.
- Are sharp objects (knives, razors, scissors) stored out of reach?
- Are cleaning products, chemicals, or medications locked away?
- Are firearms stored unloaded and locked up, with ammunition kept separately?
- Are there baby gates on the stairs (if toddlers are in the home)?
- Are electrical cords, loose rugs, or other trip hazards present?
CPS expects your home to meet basic child safety standards during an investigation.
5. Drugs, Alcohol, and Substance Use
Substance abuse is a serious concern for CPS investigators in Michigan.
- Is there any evidence of illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia?
- Is alcohol stored out of children’s reach?
- If substance abuse is suspected, CPS may request that you take a drug test. (If you do not want to consent to the test, you should call your attorney immediately)
Any visible indicators of drug or alcohol misuse around children can escalate your CPS case.
6. Outdoor Safety and Supervision Risks
The exterior of your home is also part of the CPS home inspection.
- If you have a pool, hot tub, or pond, is it fenced or safely covered to prevent drowning?
- Are outdoor tools, chemicals, or machinery properly stored?
Outdoor safety risks are just as important as what’s found inside the home.
What Happens Next?
The caseworker will then assess whether immediate protective action is necessary. If the caseworker finds no evidence of abuse or neglect, the case may be closed quickly. If the caseworker notes any concerns, CPS may request services or draft a safety plan. To learn more about Michigan CPS investigations and possible outcomes, click here.
Should You Cooperate With CPS?
You are not legally required to cooperate during a CPS investigation. It is important to know that you are entitled to legal representation at every stage of a CPS investigation, including before the home visit. To learn more about your rights during a CPS investigation, click here. You should always consult with an experienced attorney to ensure that you are taking the correct steps during a CPS investigation.
Speak With a Michigan CPS Defense Attorney
At The Kronzek Firm, we’ve spent decades defending Michigan parents against CPS overreach and allegations of abuse or neglect.
If you’ve been notified of a report made against you to CPS or suspect a home visit may happen soon, call our office today. We offer confidential consultations to help you understand your rights and protect your family.📞 You can reach our offices 24/7 at 1-800-KRONZEK to schedule your consultation.