Public checklist
Questions to Ask a Sober Living House
Use these questions when calling, touring, comparing, or considering a sober living house, Oxford House, recovery housing program, halfway house, or transitional recovery housing option.
Safety and structure
Use these questions to understand the daily environment, supervision, and house expectations.
- Who owns or operates the house?
- Is there staff, a house manager, or peer leadership on-site?
- What are the house rules?
- What happens if someone violates house rules?
- Is there a curfew? Does it change by phase or length of stay?
- How are conflicts between housemates handled?
- Are overnight guests allowed?
- Are visitors allowed? If yes, what are the visitor rules?
- How are bedrooms assigned?
- How many people share each room and bathroom?
Recovery requirements
Use these questions to understand what recovery participation is expected.
- Are recovery meetings required?
- How many meetings are required each week?
- Are certain meeting types required, such as AA, NA, SMART Recovery, Recovery Dharma, or Celebrate Recovery?
- Is sponsorship required?
- Is step work or workbook work required?
- Are clients expected to attend house meetings?
- Are clients required to have a therapist, outpatient program, sponsor, or recovery coach?
- How does the house support someone who is struggling but asks for help before relapse?
- What happens after relapse or suspected relapse?
Testing and accountability
Use these questions to understand drug/alcohol testing and accountability practices.
- Do you require drug testing?
- Do you require breathalyzer testing?
- How often are tests done?
- Are tests scheduled, random, or both?
- Who administers the tests?
- Are test results documented?
- What happens after a missed test?
- What happens after a positive or refused test?
- Are prescribed medications reviewed or documented?
- What is the policy on MAT or prescribed controlled medications?
Costs and fees
Use these questions to understand the real cost before moving in.
- What is the total move-in cost?
- Is there an application fee?
- Is there a deposit?
- Is the deposit refundable or non-refundable?
- What is the weekly or monthly program fee?
- What is included in the fee?
- Are utilities included?
- Are food, toiletries, transportation, or supplies included?
- What happens if someone falls behind on payment?
- Are receipts or written payment records provided?
Documents and policies
Use these questions before signing paperwork or paying money.
- Will I receive a written agreement before paying?
- Can I review the house rules before moving in?
- Is there a grievance or complaint process?
- Is there a written discharge policy?
- Is there a refund policy?
- Are clients given copies of signed documents?
- Is personal information kept private?
- Who has access to client records?
- Are emergency contacts required?
Daily living and expectations
Use these questions to understand chores, transportation, employment, and daily routines.
- Are chores required?
- How are chores assigned and tracked?
- Are clients required to work, attend school, volunteer, or attend treatment?
- Is transportation provided?
- Is the house near public transportation?
- Are clients allowed to have vehicles?
- Is parking available?
- Are meals provided or does each person buy their own food?
- Are there quiet hours?
- Are phones, computers, or internet access restricted?
Fit and support
Use these questions to decide whether the house is a realistic fit.
- Does the house serve women, men, coed adults, families, or another group?
- What is the typical age range or recovery stage of people in the house?
- Is the house appropriate for someone coming from detox, residential treatment, outpatient treatment, or incarceration?
- Are mental health needs supported?
- Are medications allowed and safely stored?
- What support is available during the first week?
- What makes someone a good fit for this house?
- What would make someone not a good fit?
- Can I tour the home before deciding?
- Can I talk with the house manager before applying?