When it comes to assisted living facility inspections, the resident room setup is often overlooked—yet it’s one of the most straightforward areas for surveyors to cite. Florida Administrative Code 59A-36.014 outlines the minimum physical plant requirements each resident room must meet.

If you’re an owner or operator in Florida, here’s exactly what you need to ensure each resident’s room includes to remain in compliance:

Required Bedroom Items:

1.Bed Specifications

Each resident must be provided with a clean, comfortable bed. The mattress must be at least 36 inches wide and 72 inches long, with the top surface at a comfortable height to allow residents to get in and out safely and easily.

2.Clothing Storage (Hanging Space)

A closet or wardrobe must be available for each resident to hang clothing. This can be a built-in or freestanding unit.

3.Dresser or Equivalent

Each room must include a dresser, chest of drawers, or similar furniture designed for storing personal clothing and effects.

4.Nightstand and Lighting

A nightstand or table is required, along with a bedside lamp or floor lamp to provide sufficient lighting for the resident’s needs. A wastebasket is also required.

5.Chair (Upon Request)

If a resident requests one, a comfortable chair must be provided in the room. This must be more than just a dining chair—it should offer reasonable comfort for sitting.

(e) Facilities are required to provide linens and personal laundry services for residents who need them. Linens must be:

•Free of tears

•Free of stains

•Not threadbare

Facilities are not only expected to provide these services—they are expected to monitor and maintain the condition of linens to ensure dignity and cleanliness for each resident.

This portion of the code is often considered basic—but it’s frequently cited. Non-compliance can be easily spotted during a walkthrough. And more importantly, these standards reflect the baseline of comfort and dignity each resident should experience.

Make it a habit to routinely check that every room meets these criteria—especially when preparing for surveys, onboarding new residents, or updating furniture.

If you’re unsure whether your rooms meet the standard, now is the time to double-check. A few small changes could prevent unnecessary citations down the line.