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If a resident is in immediate danger, call 911 first. To report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation in Virginia, you can contact Adult Protective Services, the Virginia Department of Health, the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, and local law enforcement — and you can contact more than one. Reporting protects your loved one and other residents, and it creates an official record.
Where to Report in Virginia
- Emergencies — call 911. Use this when a resident faces immediate harm, needs urgent treatment, or may have been assaulted.
- Adult Protective Services (APS) — (888) 832-3858. This 24-hour, toll-free statewide hotline receives reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of adults age 60 and older and incapacitated adults 18 and older. You can also report through your local Department of Social Services.
- Virginia Department of Health, Office of Licensure and Certification (OLC) — 1-800-955-1819 (Richmond metro (804) 367-2106). The OLC regulates licensed nursing homes and takes complaints about quality of care. Complaints can be filed by phone, online, or in writing.
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman. The Ombudsman advocates for residents, helps resolve complaints, and explains resident rights.
- Local police. Physical assault, sexual abuse, and financial exploitation may be crimes and should be reported to law enforcement.
For an assisted living facility (rather than a nursing home), quality-of-care complaints go to the Department of Social Services, Division of Licensing Programs, at 1-800-543-7545.
What Information to Provide![Virginia Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer | Mottley Law Firm]()
When you report, give the resident's name, the facility name and address, the dates and times of what happened, a clear description of your concerns, and the names of any staff or witnesses. Attach photographs and documents if you have them, and ask the facility to preserve records such as charts and surveillance video.
What Happens After You Report
The agency reviews the report and decides how to respond based on the severity of the allegations. APS may investigate, interview the resident and staff, and coordinate with law enforcement. The OLC may inspect the facility, review records, and issue penalties for regulatory violations. Some investigations move quickly; others take time. You can follow up to request updates and should keep documenting any ongoing concerns.
Reporting vs. a Civil Claim
Reporting to a state agency is not the same as filing a lawsuit. A regulatory or protective investigation can stop ongoing harm and create a record, but it does not, by itself, recover compensation for your family. A civil claim is a separate process. Families often pursue both, and an agency finding can become useful evidence in a civil case. To understand the civil side, see who can be held liable and the deadline to file a claim.
Talk With a Virginia Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
If you have reported abuse or neglect — or are not sure where to start — The Mottley Law Firm can help you understand your options and protect your loved one. Learn about our nursing home abuse and neglect practice, or contact us or call (804) 409-0876 for a confidential consultation.
Agency names, phone numbers, and procedures can change; verify current contact information with the agency before relying on it. This page is general information, not legal advice. Please consult an attorney about your specific situation.
