When you’re first considering entering a sober living home, it’s important to know what to expect. There are many rules and regulations that differ from house to house, so it’s important to be aware of them before making any commitments. In this blog post, we will discuss the 10 most important things you need to know before moving into a sober living home!
10 Things You Need To Know Before Entering A Sober Home
The big picture: Sober homes are fantastic resources to have during recovery, especially if you’re receiving care at a drug rehab. However, they can also be a little … complicated. Sober homes are shared spaces, and like other communal living arrangements, there are things you should know before entering one. Here’s your guide to getting up to speed before entering a sober home.
How much does it cost? Unfortunately, sober living homes are rarely free (if you’ve found a free one that works for you, congratulations!). Sober homes cost money because they’re keeping you alive and helping you stay sober, which is more than worth it. Some of them are free, but most will charge rent or a membership fee. The average price for sober living ranges from $120-$150 per week (or around $500 per month). These prices can rise dramatically depending on the type of house and where it is, though.
Are utilities like wi-fi included? Many sober living homes include utilities in the rent price, but not all of them do. Double-check this before you sign anything! If your home doesn’t include it, you’ll need to budget for things like electricity, water and gas on your own.
Do I have to sign a lease? Most sober living houses require residents to sign leases, which are legally binding contracts. If you break the rules, your landlord can use these to evict you.
What kind of rules will I have to follow? There are a lot of different rules and regulations that differ from house to house, but some common things include:
- No drugs or alcohol
- Smoking only in designated areas
- Keeping public spaces clean
- Pick up after yourself
- No fighting or arguing with housemates
- No weapons of any kind
Safety is paramount in a sober home, and these rules are often non-negotiable. Make sure you’re willing to live by them before moving in.
What kind of people will I be living with? Sober homes are filled with a variety of different people in various stages of recovery. You’ll likely meet people who have been sober for years, as well as those who are just starting their journey. This can be a great opportunity to rebuild a positive social network of people who share your goals of recovering from drug and alcohol addiction. However, some sober homes are aimed at specific populations: people who are older, more athletic, particular genders, and so on. Make sure it’s a house with people you’re going to enjoy being around before you sign anything.
What happens if I break the rules? Breaking house rules is usually grounds for eviction. Your landlord may give you a warning first, but it depends on how serious the infraction was and whether or not you have broken any other rules recently. Sober houses are extremely strict about their policies because safety is critically important. People are somewhat vulnerable during recovery from addiction, and many may have experienced violent trauma. A calm, safe environment is necessary to ensure everyone stays on the path to recovery.
Can I bring my pet? Pets are often not allowed in sober living homes, as they can pose a safety hazard. Some houses allow or even encourage them. This can be a hard rule or exceptions such as service animals may be allowed. Always check with the house before you move in to see if your furry friend is welcome.
How long can I stay? The average length of time someone stays in a sober living home is six months, but this varies greatly. Recovery is more of a state which is maintained rather than a finish line; if you feel you need to stay longer it’s always advisable to talk with the house manager first to see if they put a limit on how much time residents stay in the home.
What should I bring with me? This depends on the house rules, but in general, there are some basic things you should take with you when you stay in a sober home. We’ve provided a helpful guide about what (and what not) to pack here!
What can I expect if this is my first sober home? If you’ve never been in a sober living home before, it’s normal to feel anxious and nervous. It might seem like an intimidating experience at first, but most people find they really enjoy themselves once they get settled in! Sober homes are great places for making new friends; and even for shy people, it’s surprisingly easy. There
There’s usually a lot of socializing going on in common areas, and people are generally understanding of the challenges of early sobriety. Take some time to acquaint yourself with the house rules before jumping into things. You’ll likely be glad you did!
Finding Your Sober Home Can Be A Challenge, However
So those are some things you need to know before moving into a sober living home. However, one point many people struggle with is finding a sober home in the first place. SoberLivingNearYou.com is a massive, easy-to-use directory of sober homes across the US. Featuring thousands of listings for every lifestyle, preference, and personality, it’s easier than ever to find a sober home to call your own.
Don’t wait — start your search with SoberLivingNearYou.com today!
