Certified Aging-In-Place Contractor

The first job of a certified aging-in-place (AIP) specialist, like Max Tripodi, is to assess your current living arrangements and medical needs before discussing the cost and time to conduct an AIP construction or renovation project.

In making an assessment, a certified aging-in-place contractor should evaluate the following aspects of your home:

• General condition – examine the siding, roof, windows, finishes, and fixtures to determine if they are fit to take on the construction project at hand.
• Ownership and related restrictions – An experienced general contractor will know not to begin an aging in place modification without finding out who the property owner is, and who is authorized to make binding decisions and agreements, sign orders, and verify compliance with HOA codes, restrictions, and covenants.
• Grounds – This includes landscape, driveways, walkways, path lighting, and outdoor access.
• External and internal traffic – A general contractor will assess pathways, flooring, space, turns, corners, controls, lighting/electrical, and stairs in order to determine if any electricians, plumbers, etc. need to be contacted for the AIP project.
• Entries – The dimensions, as well as threshold, door swing, and hardware are important factors to evaluate before beginning any major construction or modification for accessibility.
• Surface materials – Checking the material used for walls is a vital step that cannot be overlooked. Additionally, a contractor must ensure that there are no cracks indicating structural problems, as well as any rough surfaces that may injure the client during a fall.
• Individual rooms – For example, if a live-in caregiver is needed, does the home have a bedroom and bath available?
• Safety and security – Before an AIP construction of modification can begin, an aging-in-place contractor will investigate all of the security features provided or lacking in the home. Physical safety branches farther than preventing a fall, it also includes ensuring that no intruders will enter the home. This means checking the locks, security doors/systems, and keypads, and ensuring there are no fire hazards such as faulty wiring in the electric circuit boxes.

National Association of Home Builder’s Certified Aging-In-Place Contractor

If you have any questions regarding renovating your home for aging in place, please feel free to contact our Certified Aging In Place (AIP) Contractor, Max Tripodi, at (954) 931-6688.  He is more than happy to answer your questions.

To learn more about aging in place home renovations, please see our partner site, aipcontractor.com, where Max is the contributing author.

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