When you are looking for a contractor to make your home safer and more accessible, one credential stands out above the rest: the Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) designation.
Awarded by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), CAPS is the gold standard in the aging-in-place industry. Here is everything you need to know about it.
What Does CAPS Stand For?
CAPS stands for Certified Aging in Place Specialist. It is a professional designation awarded by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in collaboration with the AARP and other aging-focused organizations.
Who Can Earn the CAPS Designation?
The program is open to home builders, remodelers, designers, occupational therapists, and other professionals who work on making homes accessible. To earn the designation, candidates must:
- Complete a three-course curriculum covering technical skills, design principles, and client communication
- Pass a comprehensive exam
- Maintain the designation through continuing education
What Do CAPS Professionals Learn?
The CAPS curriculum covers three core areas:
- Marketing and Communication: How to sensitively discuss aging-related needs with clients and their families
- Design and Construction: Technical standards for accessible design, ADA guidelines, Universal Design principles, and specific modification techniques
- Business Management: Project management, liability considerations, and building code compliance specific to accessibility work
Why Hire a CAPS Contractor?
While any licensed contractor can install a grab bar or build a ramp, CAPS professionals bring specialized expertise that makes a real difference:
- They understand progressive conditions. A CAPS contractor will design modifications that account for how mobility needs may change over time, preventing costly rework later.
- They know the funding landscape. CAPS professionals are trained to help clients navigate Medicaid waivers, VA benefits, and other assistance programs.
- They communicate with sensitivity. Discussing aging and disability can be emotional. CAPS training includes specific techniques for having these conversations respectfully.
- They follow the latest standards. Because the designation requires continuing education, CAPS contractors stay current with evolving best practices and building codes.
How to Verify a Contractor's CAPS Certification
You can verify a contractor's CAPS status through the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) website at nahb.org. Additionally, all contractors on AccessHome Pro who hold the CAPS designation display a verified certification badge on their profile.
Find a CAPS Contractor Near You
Ready to start your aging-in-place project with a qualified professional? Search our directory to find CAPS-certified contractors in your area. Every listed professional has been verified, and you can request free quotes directly through their profile.
