📋 Facility Standards

Facility Standards focus on maintaining a safe, clean, and supportive physical environment and apply regardless of operator status or facility ownership status.

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Section 1: Home Layout Standards

These standards include bedroom capacity, bathroom capacity, and common areas

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1.1. Bedroom Capacity; Standards

Bedroom Capacity [70 sq. ft. for first bed + 50 sq. ft. for each additional]

Bedrooms must be a minimum of 70 square feet. Room size is measured in floor square footage with the height above the floor of at least 5 feet. Room size does not include closets, but closets may be included in total room size if the closet is a part of the room or has the door removed. 

Bedroom Layout & Standards

Room Layout. Bedroom layout plays a role in how many beds can be comfortably fit in a room. Some rooms may have appropriate size for a certain number of beds but the layout reduces the number of beds appropriate for the room. Bedrooms must comfortably fit the desired number of beds with adequate space for guests to access beds, dressers, and other features of the room.

Large Rooms. Rooms intended to serve five or more guests should be carefully considered. Usually, it would not be sensible to have five or more guests in a room without careful thought put into room division to allow for adequate privacy. See Bedroom Configuration Guide below.

Clothes Storage. Bedrooms must allow for a minimum of 3’ (linear) of hanging space for storage of clothing. This can be in a closet or dresser, or some other storage option. This storage requirement can be met with closets or storage locations outside of the room as well.

Windows. Bedrooms must have code-compliant windows for light, ventilation, and egress.

Reasonable Judgement. Just because something meets standards does not mean it is the right thing to do. Similarly, just because something doesn't meet the criteria does not mean that an exception cannot be made. Use reasonable judgment when laying out physical space in a building. Would you want to sleep here?

Access: Bedroom Configuration Guide [PDF]

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1.2. Home Capacity; Standards

Bathroom Capacity     [1 FBE to 6 guests]

A toilet, sink, and shower together, regardless if they are in the same room as each other, is considered a Full Bathroom Equivalent (FBE).  Our FBE standard is the same as NARR requirements: 1 FBE to 6 guests. Some states may have less restrictive requirements, but this is a good rule-of-thumb. We may grant an exception if requested, but in no circumstances will we permit more than 8 guests per FBE in the home.

Common Area

A sense of community is one of the core features of a recovery home. Homes have frequent house meetings where all guests gather and discuss home-related issues, personal struggles, and offer support to one another. Recovery homes must offer ample ample common space.

Primary Common Room. There must be at least one room in the home that is capable of seating every guest in the home at one time. This is what we call the Primary Common Room (PCR). This could be a living room and dining room combination, finished basement, etc.

Waiver. For very large homes where would be impractical to do so, this requirement can be waived--and the home could have two house meetings, allowing for half-capacity in each.

Building Capacity

Homes must allow for 150 square feet per guest, in total, regardless of available bed space. Finished and usable basement, attic, or other space can count towards total square feet available for guests.

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1.3. Kitchen Standards; Layout

Layout

The main kitchen must be suitable for the number of occupants in the home. Make sure all appliances are level when they are installed. A stove or cook-top, as well as an oven must be available to all guests in the kitchen area(s).

Fridges     [minimum 1 to 5 bed]

One full-size refrigerator is required per five beds, but we prefer 1 to 4. Refrigerators may be kept in or near the kitchen, or in a basement or other storage location. All refrigerators must be accessible to guests. All refrigeration should be considered a common area amenity. We discourage individual refrigerators for guests, as this may negatively affect the sense of community in the home. Fridges should be centrally located and accessible to all guests.

Storage     [3 cubic feet per bed]

Our standard is to provide 3 cubic feet of dry food storage for each guest, in addition to any common food storage. Food storage should be available in or near each kitchen. In the event storage is lacking, we can provide alternative solutions such as foot lockers for each guest, however this is not desirable. Food storage does not need to be lockable. Consider an extra refrigerator or freezer in the basement or other area.

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1.4. Functional Areas

Television & Internet

Television. Each home must be equipped with a suitable television area, typically located in a living room. This area should include space for seating for most guests in the home, facing the television. The location of the television should be suitable for internet to be provided wirelessly to the rest of the house.

Computer. We must designate an area for a computer workstation near a plug. This area must be able to fit a desk and chair. It is desirable if this area is somewhat quiet and set aside but should not take up a whole room.

Laundry

Laundry Machines. Each home must have on-site laundry. For homes with more than 23 guests, please try to have a second pair of laundry machines. The laundry room should be in a convenient area of the home, but often this is accomplished in the basement.

Storage Area. There should be a small amount of storage for laundry soap and other items. This could be accomplished by installing a few cabinets or shelves above or beside the machines. Note that most guests will have their own laundry soap and need to store it.

Storage

General. Storage is important for our guests. Storage space in bedrooms is often in short supply. Instead of guests being required to cram their closets and dressers and areas under their bed, it makes sense to offer dedicated storage in a secure location for extra items.

Lockers. Lockers should be available for each home located in common areas or in the basement. There should be at least one locker bay for each guest in the home. Lockers are typically located near the entry area or other easy-to-access and visible common area location.

Former Guest Items. Some amount of clean, dry, and secure basement or garage area should be made available for the storage of misc. items belonging to departed guests. This stuff tends to pile up over time, so make sure that we have a decent amount of space designated for this purpose. This space should be secure, safe from water, and well-lit.

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1.5. Other Design Elements

Access Doors. The home should limit the amount of doors to the outside to avoid having to monitor additional points of entry or exit by guests. Try to limit the number of egresses to two from the dwelling unit.

Egress. Do not ever restrict access to any means of egress under any circumstances. Each floor must have two means of egress from the floor. Each bedroom must have a second means of egress (e.g. a window) in the event of an emergency.

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Section 2: Site & Exterior Standards

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2.1. Building Elements

Roof: The roof of the facility should be in good condition, free from leaks, and properly insulated. Regular inspections and maintenance of the roof should be conducted at least annually or after any significant weather events to ensure its integrity. Gutters must be present and sufficient.

Siding: The siding of the building should be intact, properly secured, and free from any damage, decay, or loose materials. It should be checked regularly for any signs of wear or damage and repaired or replaced as necessary.

Windows: All windows should be properly sealed, insulated, and in good working condition. This includes the ability to open and close properly for ventilation and emergency exits. Screens should be installed on all windows to keep out insects and debris. Broken or cracked windows or screens should be replaced immediately. Window locks should be functioning properly to ensure security. Windows should also be cleaned regularly, both inside and outside.

Doors: All external doors should be in good working condition, with properly functioning locks and handles. External doors should be solid and secure, providing adequate protection against forced entry. Regular maintenance of doors, including hinges and locks, is essential for safety and security. Main entry doors must be equipped with keypad access control, etc.

Utility Connections: All utility connections, including water, electricity, and gas, should be properly installed, maintained, and regularly inspected to ensure they are in safe and working condition. Any issues or anomalies should be addressed immediately by a qualified professional. All meters and utility connections must be accessible at all times

Porches: Porches should be well-maintained and free from any loose or damaged materials. Railings should be secure and in good condition. The porch area should be kept clean and free from clutter or debris. Regular maintenance and inspections should be conducted to ensure safety.

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2.2. Parking & Driveways

Parking: Parking areas, if available, should be well-maintained, clearly marked, and adequately lit. The number of parking spaces should comply with local regulations (to the extent they apply) and should be sufficient to accommodate guests within reason. The parking area should be regularly inspected for any damage, such as potholes or faded markings, and repaired as necessary. Adequate security measures, such as surveillance cameras, should be in place to ensure the safety of vehicles and individuals using the parking area. Parking should not take place on any grass or dirt. Parking should only take place on proper material.

Driveways: Driveways should be well-maintained, clearly marked, and adequately lit. The surface of the driveway should be smooth and free of potholes or cracks that could pose a trip hazard or damage vehicles. Driveways should be wide enough to accommodate the passage of vehicles safely and should have clear sightlines at all intersections. Regular inspections and maintenance should be conducted to ensure the safety and functionality of the driveway. In winter months or inclement weather, the driveway should be regularly cleared of snow and ice and treated with sand or salt as necessary to ensure safety.

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2.3. Landscape & Curb Appeal

Curb Appeal

Landscape. The landscape should be designed and maintained with sustainability and environmental stewardship in mind. Native plants should be used wherever possible, as they are adapted to the local climate and require less maintenance and water. Plants should be selected based on their suitability for the site conditions, such as sun exposure, soil type, and water availability. Irrigation systems, if used, should be efficient and properly maintained to minimize water usage. Pesticides and fertilizers should be used sparingly and responsibly, and organic or environmentally friendly options should be considered whenever possible. Regular maintenance activities, such as mowing, pruning, and mulching, should be conducted as needed to maintain the health and appearance of the landscape.

Exterior. The exterior of the facility should present a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Lawns should be well-maintained, mowed regularly, and free of weeds and debris. Flower beds should be neatly mulched, and plants should be healthy and well-trimmed. Trees and shrubs should be pruned regularly to maintain a neat appearance and to remove any dead or damaged branches. Hardscape elements, such as pathways, benches, and fences, should be in good repair and free of dirt and debris. The overall landscape design should be cohesive, well-planned, and complement the architecture of the building.

Visual Privacy. Measures should be taken to ensure the visual privacy of guests in outdoor areas, such as the use of fencing, hedges, or privacy screens.

Drainage

Proper drainage is essential to prevent water accumulation and damage to the landscape and the facility. The landscape should be graded to direct water away from the building and towards designated drainage areas. Drainage systems, such as gutters, downspouts, and drainage grates, should be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure proper functioning. Rain gardens or swales may be installed to capture and filter stormwater runoff. Any standing water or drainage issues should be addressed promptly to prevent erosion, plant damage, or water intrusion into the building.

Exterior Lighting

Exterior lighting should be adequate to ensure the safety and security of the facility and its occupants. Lighting should be strategically placed to illuminate walkways, entrances, parking areas, and any other outdoor spaces used by residents, staff, or visitors. Lighting fixtures should be well-maintained and energy-efficient.

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2.4. Functional Areas

Smoking Area. A designated smoking area must be identified outside the home, and not close to any combustible materials, and located out of view from the front street or other visible area. This smoking area should include room for a “butt can” and seating, preferably covered, but not under any area of a home.

Outdoor Seating. Outdoor seating should be encouraged.

Storage. Storage should be available outside the home for lawn care items, grills, outdoor furniture, and other items not suitable to be stored inside the home. If flammable materials (gasoline) will be stored, ensure these items are not to be stored inside the home or underneath area of the home.

Trash & Recycling

Trash & Recycling Area. A trash and recycling area should be identified outside the home, but close to a main door. This area should be located carefully to minimize odor and attracting animals, while at the same time maximizing convenience. This area could be enclosed and covered, but this is not necessary. Trash and recycling receptacles should be conveniently located, clearly marked, and regularly emptied and cleaned. The area around the receptacles should be kept clean and free of debris.

Quantity of Trash & Recycling Containers. This area must have room for an appropriate amount of trash and recycling receptacles, typically one pair of totes per 6 guests. Dumpsters may be used for larger homes, but this is not standard. Trash receptacles are provided and must be accessible to all guests. Recycling, as available, should be provided in separate containers. Guests should always be encouraged to recycle. All trash containers must seal tight. Trash should always be kept in bags.

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Section 3: Plumbing & HVAC Standards

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3.1. Plumbing Standards

Pipes & Drains

All pipes and drains should be in good working order, free of leaks, and properly insulated to prevent freezing in colder months. Regular inspections should be conducted to identify any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Drains should be clear of obstructions and should allow water to flow freely. Any necessary repairs or maintenance should be conducted promptly by a licensed professional. All plumbing must be tested and confirmed to be working and sufficient for high-volume use. Older plumbing should be replaced as needed, even if it is still functional.

Shutoffs. All major water lines should have shutoffs and have a label for where they go.

Cleanouts. All main drains must have accessible cleanouts.

Exposed pipes: All exposed pipes should be boxed in and covered. We should not have exposed water lines or drain lines in Living Spaces.

Water Heating

Water heating device(s) must be present and sufficient for the volume of use expected based on the number of Guests proposed to be in the home. If there is a water heater in good working order, don't mess with it - wait and see if there are complaints about lack of hot water before making a decision to replace or upgrade an existing functional system.

The water heating system should be properly maintained and in good working order to ensure a consistent supply of hot water to all fixtures in the home. The system should be regularly inspected and serviced by a qualified professional to ensure its efficiency and safety. Temperature settings should be appropriate to prevent scalding while also conserving energy.

Pressure relief valves. Ensure that there is a proper pressure relief valve.

Upper floors. If a water heater is located on a floor above living space, they will require a pan and drain in case they burst.

Low-Flow Devices

To conserve water and reduce utility costs, low flow devices such as toilets, faucets, and showerheads should be installed wherever possible. These devices should be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure their proper functioning.

• Toilets must use 1.6 gallons per flush, or fewer. Toilets that do not meet this requirement must be replaced.
• Shower heads and faucet aerators should be replaced with low-flow devices if needed.

Backflow Prevention

A backflow prevention device should be installed and maintained to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the potable water supply. The device should be regularly inspected and tested by a certified professional to ensure its proper functioning.

Sump Pumps (if applicable)

If the facility has a basement or is located in an area prone to flooding, a sump pump should be installed and properly maintained to prevent water accumulation. The sump pump should be regularly inspected and tested to ensure its proper functioning.

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3.2. HVAC Standards

HVAC services must be present and sufficient for the home. Guests must be able to regulate the temperature in their room.

System Maintenance

The HVAC system should be properly maintained and in good working order at all times. Filters should be changed regularly, according to the manufacturer's recommendations, to ensure clean air circulation. The system should be inspected and serviced at least annually by a qualified professional to ensure efficiency and identify any potential issues.

Temperature Control

The HVAC system should be capable of maintaining a comfortable temperature throughout the home and in all rooms in all seasons. Thermostats should be properly calibrated and located in appropriate areas to accurately measure and control the temperature.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality. Ventilation systems should be properly designed, maintained, and operated to ensure adequate fresh air exchange. Exhaust fans should be installed in areas with higher moisture levels, such as bathrooms and kitchens, and should be properly vented to the outside.

Air Quality

The HVAC system should be equipped with appropriate air filtration devices to remove pollutants and allergens from the indoor air. Humidity levels should be controlled to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Regular inspections and maintenance should be conducted to ensure the proper functioning of the air quality control systems.

Ductwork

The ductwork should be properly sealed and insulated to ensure energy efficiency and prevent air loss. Regular inspections should be conducted to identify any signs of damage, wear, or contamination, and any necessary repairs or cleaning should be conducted promptly.

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Section 4: Electrical Standards

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4.1. General

All electrical work should be conducted by a licensed professional in accordance with local building codes and regulations. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors should be properly installed, maintained, and tested regularly. Fire extinguishers should be easily accessible and properly maintained.

Circuitry, Wiring, and Electrical Systems

All wiring and electrical systems should be properly installed, maintained, and in good working order. Wiring should be adequately insulated and protected from damage. Regular inspections should be conducted by a licensed electrician to identify any signs of wear, damage, or overload. Any necessary repairs or modifications should be conducted promptly by a licensed professional.

Exposed wires: There should be no exposed wires of any sort. All wires should either be in a wall or with compliant wire molding. All electrical boxes should be properly covered.

Circuit Breakers

All circuits must be on circuit breakers, not fuses. All knob and tube must be removed and replaced according to current and applicable building code (in most cases). Consider auditing and removing any unused wires, especially in basements.

The electrical panel should be clearly labeled, easily accessible, and equipped with properly rated circuit breakers or fuses. Regular inspections should be conducted to ensure that the panel and its components are in good working order and that there are no signs of overheating or other potential hazards. All circuits in all breaker boxes must be labeled for where they go and what they do.

Receptacles and Switches

Outlets and switches should be properly installed, securely fastened, and in good working order. GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets should be installed in areas where water is present, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Outlets should be adequately distributed throughout the home to avoid the need for extension cords or power strips. Child-proof covers should be installed on unused outlets to prevent accidents. Each room must have the appropriate number of electrical devices (plugs, lights, switches, etc.) as required by code and as required to provide utility and convenience to guests.

• If you are building new bedroom area, consider wall-mounting a small reading light near the head of each bed area.

Lights

Lighting fixtures should be properly installed, securely fastened, and in good working order. Energy-efficient LED bulbs should be used wherever possible. Adequate lighting should be provided in all areas of the home, including common areas, bedrooms, and outdoor spaces. Motion sensor or timer-controlled lighting can be installed in lesser-used areas to conserve energy. Consider ceiling fans in all bedrooms.

Switches: All lights should be on switches and not on pull chains, except in closets where pull chains are okay

Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient appliances and devices should be used wherever possible. Guests should be encouraged to turn off lights, appliances, and devices when not in use. Programmable thermostats can be installed to optimize heating and cooling energy consumption. Consider installing solar panels or other renewable energy sources to reduce the facility’s carbon footprint.

Electrical Load

The electrical load of the home should be carefully calculated and monitored to ensure that the electrical system is not overloaded. Additional circuits or upgrades may be necessary to accommodate the electrical needs of the guests and the appliances and devices in use.

Surge Protection

Surge protectors should be used for sensitive electronic devices, such as computers and televisions, to protect them from power surges and voltage spikes.

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4.2. Safety

Smoke & CO Detectors

Smoke detectors must be installed and maintained according to local or state guidelines. Hardwired smoke detectors are preferred, but at a minimum smoke detectors must be RF linked (radio frequency linked to one another). If hardwired smoke detectors are not present and working, we must install new RF linked detector devices. (check local fire code for more information):

• One hardwired smoke detector in each bedroom close to the entry to the bedroom
• One hardwired smoke detector on each stairway landing or hallway
• Hallways longer than 8′ will require multiple units
• One hardwired smoke and CO detector on each floor including basement and attic
• If multiple units, one closed loop per unit
• Common areas must set off all units at the same time

Batteries changed every six months (as applicable).

Exterior Lighting

Proper LED exterior lighting should be installed as appropriate. All areas around the outside of the home should be well-lit and triggered by motion, and only activated after dusk and before dawn. Existing non-LED light fixtures should be modified to be LED or replaced with LED units. See Material Specifications. Proper exterior lighting will offer a more safe environment for guests, limiting the opportunity for shenanigans taking place outside of the home at night.

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4.3. Telecom

In the area identified for a TV and/or computer, this area should be cable-ready with a permanent cable connection port nearby. A shelf or other area should be designated or installed to hold the wireless internet equipment.

Wi-Fi Access. High-speed internet access should be provided throughout the home to support the needs of the guests. A Wi-Fi mesh system should be considered for larger homes to ensure consistent and reliable internet coverage in all areas of the home. The internet service provider and plan should be carefully selected to ensure adequate bandwidth and speed for the number of guests and devices in use.

Wi-Fi Mesh System. For larger homes, a Wi-Fi mesh system should be installed to ensure consistent and reliable internet coverage throughout the entire property. The mesh system should be professionally installed and configured to optimize performance and security. Regular maintenance and updates should be conducted to ensure the proper functioning of the system.

TV Hanger. The TV should be mounted on a wall suitable for full-size TV facing an area where couches and chairs can be located.

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Section 5: Interior Standards

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Some homes have multiple units (i.e. duplex-style setup) which can be used to split genders in the home. In this case, each of the features should apply to each unit. For example, we need to have lockers and a sign-in area for each unit. However, if we have multiple units that we are going to operate as a combined home, we can have only one set of lockers and sign-in area.

A furnishing plan should be prepared using our Furnishing Plan Template excel document. This will track the process of furnishing as well as provide documentation as to what furnishings and items are present in the home.

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5.1. General Room Standards

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5.3. Kitchens

Kitchens should be equipped with modern, energy-efficient appliances. Countertops and surfaces should be durable, easy to clean, and well-maintained. Adequate storage space should be provided for food, utensils, and cookware. Proper ventilation should be ensured to remove cooking odors and moisture. Flooring should be waterproof, durable, non-slip, and easy to clean. A fire extinguisher and a smoke detector should be installed and easily accessible.

In addition to appliances, each kitchen should be outfitted with the appropriate cooking and serving utensils. Multiple microwaves and sets of dishware are recommended. Refer to Furnishing Plan.

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5.4. Bathrooms

Bathrooms should be equipped with modern, water-efficient fixtures, including a toilet, sink, and shower or bathtub. Surfaces should be durable, waterproof, and easy to clean. Adequate ventilation should be provided to prevent mold and mildew. Flooring should be non-slip and waterproof. Adequate storage space should be provided for toiletries and personal items. Grab bars should be installed near the toilet and in the shower or bathtub for safety, as applicable.

Narcan. Narcan holder affixed behind each toilet

Accessories. Every bathroom must include suitable bathroom accessories. These accessories include:

• Toilet paper holder: suitable and durable, close to toilet
• Towel bar: suitable and durable, close to shower/tub, enough space for multiple towels
• Towel ring: located close to sink for small hand towels
• Narcan dish: install a Narcan holder above the toilet in each bathroom.
• Shower rod, curtain, and liner: suitable for use keeping water in the shower
• Initial supply of toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning products (if a new home)

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5.5. Bedrooms

Windows should be equipped with curtains or blinds to provide privacy and light control. Adequate lighting should be provided for reading and other activities. Flooring should be clean, well-maintained, and comfortable. Smoke detectors should be installed and in good working order. If you are installing new flooring, consider carpet tile or vinyl plank.

Required Furniture. Each bedroom should include the following furniture:

• Twin or Twin-XL bed frames
• Appropriate mattresses
• Dressers (each guest must have access to a dresser or portion of a dresser with a minimum of 4 full-size drawers for folded clothing or other items)

Required Items. Each bedroom should include each of the following items for each bed in the room:

Per bed (one required for each bed in the bedroom):

• Small cork board, affixed to the wall near each bed
• 10 clothes hangers inside the closet

Per bedroom (one of each per bedroom)

• One small trash bin, required
• One wall- or door-mounted mirror, required
• Nightstands, recommended
• Lamps, optional
• Desk & chair, optional if there is space

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5.6. Functional Areas

Laundry

Laundry Area. The laundry area should be easily accessible to all guests at all times, unless specified otherwise (e.g., quiet hours). If possible, the laundry area should be located on the main floor to accommodate guests with mobility issues. The laundry area should be well-lit and easily accessible to all guests and have laundry machine hookups appropriate for the number of guests in the home. Ensure the following:

1. Laundry area is safe and free from exposed wires
2. Laundry area is well-lit with LED lighting operated properly
3. Laundry area provides for connections for the appropriate number of appliances

In addition to the laundry appliances discussed earlier, each laundry area should provide for a place to fold clothes, and a small amount of storage for laundry soap and other items. Provide a small trash bin for laundry-related garbage.

Laundry Machines. Coin-operated laundry should be made available in each home. We highly recommend using conversion kits. These are small metal boxes which dispense electricity on a timed basis and accept quarters to activate an appliance. We can use standard clothes washers and dryers and attach these boxes to them. Make sure all appliances are level when they are installed.

Folding Table. The laundry area should have a table for folding clothing after washing. This table could be built in or a free-standing table.

Telecom & Entertainment

Television. A television must be provided for use in the common area of the home. This television should be appropriately sized for the room and in good working order.

Computer Station. This station should include a desktop computer with monitor and keyboard, connected to the internet, accessible without a username and password. The computer should be in a quiet area with a desk and a chair. A printer should also be provided and connected to the computer.

Entry Areas

Standards. Entry areas should be well-lit, clean, and welcoming. Flooring should be durable and non-slip. Adequate space should be provided for guests to remove and store outerwear and footwear. Security measures such as a peephole, a secure lock, and, if possible, a security camera should be installed. Entry areas should be easily accessible and free of obstacles.

Location. The entry area should be inside the building just inside the main entrance with the keypad lock. This entry area must include a small table for paperwork, area for posters, and area for storage of coats / boots. The area must have a durable and waterproof floor.

• Paperwork table. A decent table to hold general information, small trash can, container for pens, and a basket for mail.
• Cork board. Hang a medium to large-size cork board on the wall near the sign-in table. On this cork board should be required posters (see required posters article), and any other important information such as meeting lists, announcements, and notices.
• White board. Hang a medium to large-size whiteboard to be used by the House Mentor for tracking chores, Wi-Fi passwords, contact information, etc.
• Entry door mats to protect flooring

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5.7. Décor & Aesthetic

Window Treatments

Bedroom Windows. All bedroom windows must have cordless miniblinds. Blinds should be measured from inside the window wells, and blinds installed permanently and properly. Decorative curtain and curtain rods are optional. Curtain rods and curtains should all match the others in the room. For bedrooms which cannot have properly installed miniblinds, see below.

Privacy Windows. Windows located in private areas, such as bathrooms or in bedrooms that cannot have properly installed miniblinds, we must “frost” the glass to limit visibility through the window.

Common Area Windows. Blinds are recommended on most other windows, but not required. Curtains are highly recommended on all windows.

Interior Décor

Wall Art. Wall art is required in all bedrooms and common areas. Wall art should be suitable for the space, appropriately colored, and recommend to obtain these items from thrift stores.

Rugs. Area rugs should be used on all hardwood floors where there will be any amount of high traffic.

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5.8. Other

Air Conditioners

If central air conditioning is not present, one window-mounted air conditioner per bedroom, 5,000 BTU, recommended – store these items in the basement.

Dehumidifier

Most home should have a dehumidifier located in any needed area to reduce humidity. Dehumidifiers should be set to constantly drain into a suitable location. If the basement or other area in the home gets regularly damp, a dehumidifier is required.

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Section 6: Documentation Standards

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Safety

Split gender homes. Some homes have multiple units (i.e. duplex-style setup) which can be used to split genders in the home. In this case, each of the features should apply to each unit. For example, we need to have lockers and a sign-in area for each unit. However, if we have multiple units that we are going to operate as a combined home, we can have only one set of lockers and sign-in area.

Buildout plan. Each home will require a unique plan for any buildout required. Safety is our primary concern with both the process of any buildout as well as the finished product. This guide should be used during initial planning before renovation work is completed. This guide should assist in designing and planning in advance of setting up a home. The following functional areas must be identified and made available to all guests. These are standard functions that must be present in each home.

Floor Plan. Each home requires a full to-scale floorplan with indications of each of the below items. This floor plan will be used as the basis for renovation plans, furnishing plans, and fire exit plans. It is crucial for planning the layout of the home, ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations, and maximizing the comfort, safety, and functionality of the space for the guests.

1. Dimensions of bedrooms to verify space for beds
2. List of furniture required or present in each room
3. Display of plumbing fixtures
4. Exit plan

This floorplan will be used for the basis of renovation plans, furnishing plans, and fire exit plans.

Evacuation Map: All homes must have a to-scale floor plan completed, with an exit route for each floor indicated on the plans. These plans must be affixed to the wall in a conspicuous location on each floor of the building. The PDF files for these plans must be located in the home folder (All Staff > Homes > home folder).

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