Sterling Court
RCFE
A Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) is a non-medical residential care home licensed by California CDSS under Health & Safety Code §1560. Residents receive assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, meals, and medication management in a home-like setting. RCFEs are not hospitals or skilled nursing facilities — they do not provide round-the-clock medical care.
850 No. el Camino Real · San Mateo, 94401
Quick facts
Quality snapshot
Updated April 25, 2026Compared to 214 California RCFE facilities of similar size, over the last 36 months.
Source: California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division. View raw inspection records →
Quality grade· click to show how this was calculated
Severity51thWeighted citations per bed
Repeats100thRepeat deficiencies as share of total
Frequency11thDeficiencies per inspection
Tick mark at 50% = peer median · higher percentile = better facility
Quality grade· click to show how this was calculated
Weighted citations per bed
Repeat deficiencies as share of total
Deficiencies per inspection
Tick mark at 50% = peer median · higher percentile = better facility
Sterling Court scores C. Better than 54% of comparable California RESIDENTIAL CARE ELDERLY facilities. Severity: 51th percentile. Repeats: top 0%. Frequency: bottom 11%.
Each metric is converted to a 0–100 percentile within the peer set (higher = better). The composite grade averages all four. Peer set: CA / rcfe_general / small beds (214 facilities).
Citation severity over time
↑ worseningWeighted severity score per month · 24 months
Weighted score (24mo)
33
Last citation
Feb 26
Finding distribution
7 total · 36 monthsScope × Severity (CMS A–L)
The rules that apply to this facility
California Title 22 requirements for this facility, with the specific regulation and a suggested question for each.
What training are all staff required to complete?22 CCR §87411
All direct-care staff must complete:
- 10 hours initial training within the first four weeks of employment.
- 4 hours annual in-service every year thereafter.
- Administrator certificate from a CDSS-approved program — 80 hours for first-time, 40 hours renewal every 2 years.
Ask on tour: Ask when the last staff training was completed and how it's tracked.
How many staff must be on duty overnight?22 CCR §87415
Based on 24 licensed beds:
One awake caregiver must be on duty, plus one additional caregiver on call who can respond within 10 minutes.
Violation pattern to watch for:A facility that documents a staff member as "on call" but with that person physically off-site — when the law requires on-premises presence — is in violation of this section.
Ask on tour: Ask the facility to walk you through their overnight staffing plan and confirm whether on-call staff are on premises or off-site.
What health conditions can this facility legally accept or refuse?22 CCR §87612–87615
Restricted — allowed with physician order + care plan
- Supplemental oxygen
- Insulin and injectable medications
- Indwelling or intermittent catheters
- Colostomy / ileostomy
- Stage 1 and Stage 2 pressure injuries
- Wound care (non-complex)
- Incontinence
- Contractures
Prohibited — facility must refuse or discharge
- Stage 3 or Stage 4 pressure injuries
- Feeding tubes (PEG, NG, or J-tube)
- Tracheostomies
- Active MRSA or communicable infections requiring isolation
- 24-hour skilled nursing needs
- Total ADL dependence with inability to communicate needs
A hospice waiver (HSC §1569.73) can allow continued care for residents on hospice who would otherwise fall into a prohibited category.
Ask on tour: Ask whether your loved one's specific care needs are restricted or prohibited, and what the facility's process is if needs change after admission.
What must this facility report to the state — and how fast?22 CCR §87211 / WIC §15630
- ImmediateElopement, fire, epidemic outbreak, or poisoningImmediately
- 2 hoursAbuse with serious bodily injury2-hour phone report + 2-hour written report — to the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), Adult Protective Services, and law enforcement
- 24 hrsAbuse without serious bodily injuryWithin 24 hours
- Next dayDeath of a residentPhone by next working day; written within 7 days
- Next dayInjury requiring medical treatment beyond first aidPhone by next working day; written within 7 days
- WrittenBankruptcy, foreclosure, eviction, or utility shutoff noticeWritten notice to CDSS and residents — $100/day penalty (max $2,000) for failure
Your enforcement lever:Incidents that aren't reported on time are themselves a separate violation. If you believe a reportable event wasn't filed, you can submit a complaint directly to the California Department of Social Services (CDSS).
How does CDSS enforce these rules?22 CCR §87755–87777 / HSC §1569.58
- 1Notice of DeficiencyWritten citation with a correction deadline. Facility must submit a Plan of Correction.
- 2Civil PenaltyStarts at $50/day for non-serious; $150/day for serious deficiencies — immediately, with no grace period. Repeats escalate to $150 first day + $50/day, then $1,000 first day + $100/day.
- 3Suspension of AdmissionsFacility cannot accept new residents until violations are corrected.
- 4Temporary Suspension or RevocationEmergency suspension for imminent danger; full revocation after administrative hearing.
- 5Exclusion OrderAdministrator and operator can be barred from all CDSS-licensed facilities — not just this one.
See how these rules have been applied to this specific facility:
View state inspection record and citationsState records
California Dept. of Social Services · Community Care Licensing- License number
- 415600223
- License type
- RESIDENTIAL CARE ELDERLY
- License status
- LICENSED
- License expires
- Not yet indexed
- Licensed beds
- 24
- Operator
- Webcor Builders, Inc. & Fifty Peninsula Partners
Inspections & citations
4
reports on file
7
total deficiencies
3
Type A (actual harm)
InspectionFebruary 12, 2026Type A1 deficiency
Plain-language summary
This was a routine inspection of the facility's 21 assisted living apartments. The inspector found the building well-maintained with proper safety systems including emergency alert cords, working carbon monoxide detectors, secure medication storage, grab bars in bathrooms, and adequate lighting and temperature controls; staff background clearances and training records were also reviewed and found in order. One regulatory deficiency was noted and is detailed separately.
View full inspector notes
LPA Audrey Jeung toured facility, which consists of 21 assisted living apartments on the ground floor of this four story community, including a designated dining room. All units have private patios and small kitchens with refrigerators and microwaves. Emergency signal system is tested and consists of pull cords in bathrooms, living rooms and bedrooms, which sends audible alert to staff. Operable carbon monoxide detectors are installed in all apartments and tested. There are no accessible bodies of water or fire safety hazards observed. Medications and sharps are stored in locked medication room--inaccessible to clients--a comfortable temperature is maintained, passageways are clear, and lighting is sufficient for comfort and safety. Toilet and bathing facilities are equipped with grab bars and nonskid flooring material and hygiene supplies are maintained. Hot water temperature tested in room 102. Food supply and first-aid kit are inspected. Criminal record clearances or exemptions for facility staff or other individuals who have client contact have been reviewed, as well as staff records, including training. Client files are reviewed. Novie Villafuerte is a certified RCFE administrator (x 1/28) that oversees assisted living operations. Executive director Sarah St. Charles oversees the entire building, which includes the independent units not subject to licensing authority. The following information/forms are provided to LPA today: - Emergency Disaster Plan (LIC610E) - Personnel REport (LIC500) - proof of current liability insurance - Designation of Administrative Responsibility (LIC308) - Administrative Organization (LIC309) Deficiency of the California Code of Regulations, Title 22 is cited on following page. See also Technical Advisory Notes--2 pages.
Regulation
MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION ...Hot water temperature controls shall be maintained to automatically regulate the temperature of hot water used by residents to attain a temperature of not less than 105 degree F and not more than 120 degree F. This requirement is not met, as hot water
Inspector finding
temperature tested in room 134 at 124 degrees F. Licensee failed to ensure that hot water twmperature is maintained within range of 105 to 120 degrees F, which poses an immediate health, safety or personal rights risk to clients in care.
InspectionFebruary 20, 2025Type A3 deficiencies
Inspector: Audrey Jeung
Plain-language summary
During a routine inspection, the facility was found to meet requirements for emergency communication systems, smoke and carbon monoxide detection, medication storage, bathroom safety features, water temperature, and staff background clearances. The inspector noted that apartments have private patios and kitchens, emergency pull cords are functional, grab bars and nonskid flooring are installed in bathrooms, and passageways are well-lit and clear. The facility was asked to submit a personnel report to address some deficiencies in state regulations by March 6, 2025.
View full inspector notes
LPA Audrey Jeung toured facility, which consists of 21 assisted living apartments on the ground floor of this four story community, including a designated dining room. All units have private patios and small kitchens with refrigerators and microwaves. Emergency signal system is tested and consists of pull cords in bathrooms, living rooms and bedrooms, which sends audible alert to staff. Operable carbon monoxide detectors are installed in all apartments and tested. There are no accessible bodies of water or fire safety hazards observed. Medications and sharps are stored in locked medication room--inaccessible to clients--a comfortable temperature is maintained, passageways are clear, and lighting is sufficient for comfort and safety. Toilet and bathing facilities are equipped with grab bars and nonskid flooring material and hygiene supplies are maintained. Hot water temperature tested at 108 degrees in room 109. Food supply and first-aid kit are inspected. Criminal record clearances or exemptions for facility staff or other individuals who have client contact have been reviewed, as well as staff records, including training. Client files and medications records are reviewed. Novie Villafuerte is a certified RCFE administrator (x1/26) that oversees facility operations. Executive director Sarah St. Charles oversees the entire building, which includes the independent units not subject to licensing authority. The following information is requested to be submitted to CCL by 3/6/25: • LIC 500 Personnel REport Deficiencies of the California Code of Regulations, Title 22 are cited on following pages. See also Technical Advisory Notes--2 pages.
Regulation
(a) Except as specified in subsection (b), the licensee shall ensure that disinfectants, cleaning solutions, poisonous substances, knives, matches, tools, sharp objects, and other similar items which could pose a danger to residents are in locked storage and are not left unattended if outside the locked storage.
Inspector finding
Based on observation, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above, as cleaning liquid Resolve is stored in room 114, occupied by client #2. This poses an immediate health, safety or personal rights risk to persons in care. POC Due Date: 02/20/2025 Plan of Correction 1 2 3 4 Resolve was removed from room 114 in LPA's presence. Deficiency corrected and cleared.
Regulation
(C) Any person who provides client assistance in dressing, grooming, bathing, or personal hygiene. Any nurse assistant or home health aide meeting the requirements of Section 1338.5 or 1736.6, respectively, who is not employed, retained, or contracted by the licensee, and who has been certified or recertified on or after July 1, 1998, shall be deem…
Inspector finding
Based on staff record review, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above in 1 out of 2 staff records reviewed, which poses an immediate health, safety or personal rights risk to persons in care. - Staff #2 has worked at facility since 8/2024 as a caregiver, but does not have criminal record clearance nor association with facility. Civil penalty of $500 is assessed for maximum of 5 days for initial violation. POC Due Date: 02/21/2025 Plan of Correction 1 2 3 4 Staff #2 cannot w…
Regulation
(c) A facility shall conduct a drill at least quarterly for each shift. The type of emergency covered in a drill shall vary from quarter to quarter, taking into account different emergency scenarios. An actual evacuation of residents is not required during a drill. While a facility may provide an opportunity for residents to participate in a drill,…
Inspector finding
Based on review of facility records, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above, as emergency disaster drills are not conducted quarterly. Instead, staff received training on disaster response in May, August and November 2024. This poses a potential health, safety or personal rights risk to persons in care. POC Due Date: 03/06/2025 Plan of Correction 1 2 3 4 Plan/proof of correction will be submitted to CCLD BY DUE DATE.
ComplaintMarch 11, 2024Type B3 deficiencies
Inspector: Audrey Jeung
Plain-language summary
A complaint investigation found that the facility meets safety standards for carbon monoxide detection, medication storage, emergency call systems, and bathroom safety equipment, with certified administrators overseeing operations. The inspectors requested updated documentation including floor plans, proof of liability insurance, and administrative organization forms to be submitted by the deadline. No violations were identified.
View full inspector notes
LPA Audrey Jeung toured facility, which consists of 21 assisted living apartments on the ground floor of this four story community, including a designated dining room. There are no accessible bodies of water or fire safety hazards observed. Operable carbon monoxide detectors are installed in all apartments and tested. Medications and sharps are stored in locked medication room--inaccessible to clients--a comfortable temperature is maintained, passageways are clear, and lighting is sufficient for comfort and safety. Toilet and bathing facilities are equipped with grab bars and nonskid flooring material and hygiene supplies are maintained. Food supply and first-aid kit are inspected. Emergency signal system is installed in each apartment--in living room, bedroom and bathroom--and is tested. Criminal record clearances or exemptions for facility staff or other individuals who have client contact have been reviewed, as well as staff records, including training. Novie Villafuerte and Sarah St. Charles are certified RCFE administrators (x 1/2026 and (7/2025) that oversee facility operations. Client files and medications records are reviewed. The following updated forms are given to LPA: • LIC 610E Emergency Disaster Plan • LIC 309 Administrative Organization • LIC 308 Designation of Administrative Responsibility • LIC 500 Personnel REport The following information is requested to be submitted to CCL by 3/25/24: - Facility sketch (floor plan) - Proof of current liability insurance (including coverage limits) - LIC 309 Administrative Organization (for Fifty Peninsula Partners) Deficiencies of the California Code of Regulations, Title 22 are cited on following pages.
Regulation
(f) All personnel, including the licensee and administrator, shall be in good health, and physically and mentally capable of performing assigned tasks. Good physical health shall be verified by a health screening, including a chest x-ray or an intradermal test, performed by a physician not more than six (6) months prior to or seven (7) days after e…
Inspector finding
Based on staff record review, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above, as there are no health screenings on file for all staff, which poses a potential health, safety or personal rights risk to persons in care. POC Due Date: 03/25/2024 Plan of Correction 1 2 3 4 Health screenings shall be completed for all staff, and proof of corrections to be sent to CCLD BY DUE DATE.
Regulation
(a) All residential care facilities for the elderly shall provide training to direct care staff on postural supports, restricted conditions or health services, and hospice care as a component of the training requirements specified in Section 1569.625. The training shall include all of the following:
Inspector finding
(1) Four hours of training on the care, supervision, and special needs of those residents, prior to providing direct care to residents. The facility may utilize various methods of instruction, including, but not limited to, preceptorship, mentoring, and other forms of observation and demonstration. . (2) Four hours of training thereafter of in-service training per year on the subject of serving those residents. Based on staff record review, the licensee did not comply with the section cited abov…
Regulation
(a) The licensee shall complete an individual written admission agreement, as defined in Section 87101(a), with each resident or the resident's representative, if any. (1) The text of the admission agreement, including any attachments and modifications, shall be:
Inspector finding
Printed in black type of not less than 12-point type size, on plain white paper. The print shall appear on one side of the paper only. Based on review of clients' records, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above, as admission agreements are printed on both sides of paper for 5 out of 5 resident files reviewed. This poses a potential health, safety or personal rights risk to persons in care. POC Due Date: 03/25/2024 Plan of Correction 1 2 3 4 Admission agreements shall be …
ComplaintNovember 15, 2023· UnsubstantiatedNo deficiencies
Inspector: Audrey Jeung
Unsubstantiated — the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) investigated and did not find a violation.
Plain-language summary
A complaint alleged the facility charged for medical transportation and failed to respond promptly to emergency calls, but investigators found no violation: the admission agreement stated residents are responsible for transportation costs, and while call logs showed a few delayed responses (up to 25 minutes) in fall 2021, most responses were timely and the delays were rare. The facility also had a documented pressure wound that was being treated by home health services during the resident's stay.
View full inspector notes
It is alleged that client was charged for transportation to medical appointments and that this service is included in the admission agreement. According to the Admission agreement signed by PoA for client #1, non-emergency transportation will be planned and/or arranged to medical appointments, and "facility will assist in arranging for a transportation provider...and the resident is responsible for the fare, if any." Client #1 developed deep tissue injury of heels due to pressure, which was documented in resident notes in April 2021 and treated by home health RNs. Client was already receiving home health visits since March 2021 for physical and occupational therapy. Wound care for heel wounds was documented by home health visit reports starting in May 2021. Request for healing wound exception was submitted to CCLD on 6/23/21 with physician's report. Care plans, assessment from vascular surgeon and home health RN visit notes dated in June 2021 and August 2021 were reviewed. Client #1 was admitted 11/19/20 and discharged 1/31/22, but was out of the facility for almost 4 1/2 months hospitalized, in rehabilitation, or other. According to text messages to assisted living director, staff failed to respond to client's emergency calls in timely manner on several occasions. History report of calls and responses was not available until LPA requested administrator to contact Tek Tone to make this information accessible to staff on 2/18/22. Based on call history report for client #1 for August, September, October 2021, client called for staff up to 6 times per day; in August, staff responded after 16 minutes; in September, there was a 25 minute response and a 21 minute response; in October, there was a 16 minute response. Staff responded to all other calls in a timely manner--most within 5 minutes. These lengthy response times were rare occurrences and not indicative of failing to respond to calls timely. Although the allegations may have occurred or are valid, there is not enough evidence to prove the alleged violations did or did not occur.
Federal summary
CMS Care CompareNot a CMS-certified facility
California RCFEs (residential care facilities for the elderly) are licensed by the state, not by CMS. CMS data only applies to skilled nursing facilities or to CCRCs that operate a licensed SNF wing.
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