House Rules in Sober Houses

House Rules in Sober Houses

A sober house is often considered to be the bridge between treatment and independent sober living. Residential rehab programs, half-way houses, and detox facilities refer to sober houses because they have some elements of program structure while offering an increased degree of independence and freedom. The rules and freedoms at each sober house can be very different; carefully read and consider the rules and expectations before you enter a sober living environment.

Most rules are similar: no drugs, no alcohol, random drug screens, room searches, and curfews. Some others include overnights, use of cell phones and computers, meeting requirements, and meal preparation. Resident in some sober houses can be expected to contribute money towards house supplies and food, while other homes allow for much more independence, lower cost, and less support.

Four Typical Sober House Rules

1. Drug screening

Like in drug or alcohol rehab facilities, drugs and alcohol are not allowed in any sober living facilities. Those in a recovery home who are caught with drugs or alcohol or under the influence are often subject to immediate discharge.

2. House meetings

Most sober houses hold house meetings every week, offering a place for residents to check in and work through interpersonal issues, assign chores, and get answers to questions. House meeting attendance is mandatory at Vanderburgh House.

3. Meetings

Most sober houses require residents attend outside A.A., N.A., or other recovery meetings. We believe this is crucial and require this of our residents. Take a look at our article on the importance of meetings.

4. Curfews

In most sober living environments, being home by a certain time is mandatory, especially for new residents. Over time, if a resident has a commitment at school or work, this rule may be adjusted. Our curfews and other house rules can be found in our Resident Handbook.

Other Sober House Rules

• Sponsors. Some sober houses, including Vanderburgh House, ask residents to obtain a sponsor, a homegroup, or both.
• Meal prep. Some sober houses share meals as a community and require shopping and cooking to be done as a home. We do not require this of our residents.
• Most sober houses require residents to share in chores throughout the home. Chores are a vital role for all sober house residents, and we require all residents and House Managers to share equally in these duties.
• Bathroom schedule. With multiple people living in the recovery home, it may be necessary to assign shower times to make sure that everyone is able to get where they need to be on time. We handle this on a case-by-case basis.
• Personal treatment plan goals. Some sober houses require residents to meet with House Managers or staff to develop a written recovery plan. We believe this is vitally important, but we allow our residents to develop and follow their own plan with whomever they chose.

If you want to learn more about life as a resident in a Vanderburgh House home, you can learn more here. Are you looking for a different type of sober house? Check out the Sober House Directory, a directory of hundreds of other sober homes – no doubt, you’ll find your fit!