House Rules

Car4efully Keys

The rules in a ¾ house (sober living home) are designed to create a safe, stable, and recovery-focused environment for residents transitioning from addiction treatment to independent living. Each rule serves a specific purpose rooted in psychology, accountability, and community safety:

Substance Abuse

Substance Use & Behavior

No alcohol or drug use on or off premises.
No possession of prescription narcotics unless approved and monitored.
Random drug and alcohol testing is mandatory.
No violence, threats, or intimidation toward others.
No weapons or illegal items allowed on the property.

Community Conduct

No guests in living quarters without permission, especially of the opposite sex.
No sexual activity on premises.
No gambling on or off the property.
Respect for shared spaces—clean up after yourself and complete assigned chores.
No borrowing or lending money between residents.

Accountability & Structure

Curfews are enforced, often around 10–11 PM on weekdays.
Mandatory attendance at 12-step meetings or recovery programs.
Participation in household chores and community meetings.
Employment or active job search is typically required.
Rent must be paid on time; no refunds for dismissal due to rule violations.

Exit & Consequences

Immediate dismissal for serious violations (e.g., substance use, violence).
24-hour window to remove belongings if evicted.
Criminal trespass charges may be filed if a resident refuses to leave after dismissal.

Purpose of These Rules

¾ houses are designed to:

Support long-term sobriety after inpatient treatment.

Encourage personal responsibility and peer accountability.

Provide a safe, structured environment for reintegration into society.

Support Long-Term Sobriety

No substance abuse rules eliminate triggers and temptations.

Random drug testing reinforces accountability and deters relapse.

Mandatory recovery meetings keep residents engaged in their sobriety journey.

Protect Residents and Property

No violence, threats, or weapons ensures physical safety.

No guests or sexual activity prevents drama, boundary issues, or potential exploitation.

No borrowing/lending money avoids financial manipulation or resentment.

Promote Responsibility and Structure

Curfews and chore assignments help rebuild routines and life skills.

Rent payments teach financial responsibility and prepare residents for independent living.

Job search or employment requirements encourage productivity and self-sufficiency.

Foster a Healthy Peer Community

Respect for shared spaces builds cooperation and mutual accountability.

Community meetings give residents a voice and promote conflict resolution.

No gambling or illegal activity keeps the environment focused on recovery, not risk.

Establish Clear Consequences

Immediate dismissal for serious violations protects the group from destabilizing behavior.

24-hour move-out policies reinforce the seriousness of the commitment.

Trespass enforcement ensures boundaries are respected after dismissal.

These rules aren’t just about control—they’re about empowering residents to rebuild their lives with dignity, discipline, and support. They reflect the belief that freedom is earned through responsibility, and that healing happens best in a community that holds each other accountable.

If you’re working on materials for a ¾ house or recovery program, I can help you craft a mission statement, intake packet, or resident handbook that reflects these principles.