Standards
All of the homes in the MASH network have been inspected and received a passing grade for a set of standards we insist members uphold in their homes. These standards are outlined here.
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Interconnected smoke detectors in every sleeping room, hallway, and smoking area
At least one smoke detector on each level of the home
A fire extinguisher near any stoves
A minimum of two exits on each floor
The property address is clearly displayed on the front of the home (and back if near alleys)
Smoking is prohibited in hazardous areas
Appropriate disposal containers for smoking materials
No extension cords, power outlets, or stored materials that would create a fire hazard
The home follows local building and safety codes
Evacuation maps and procedures are posted in the home
A fire drill takes place every 6 months
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There are no signs of pest infestations
Kitchen and appliances are clean and well maintained
There is at least 1 refrigerator for every 7 residents
Refrigerators are kept between 36°F-44°F with freezers at approximately 0°F
Adequate and clean food storage space
Bathrooms are clean and orderly
A minimum of 1 bathroom for every 6 residents
Laundry services are accessible to all residents
Furniture and furnishings are clean and of reasonable quality
Sleeping rooms provide all residents with adequate space
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Management and staff have completed a house management seminar
Clear acceptance criteria for all applicants
All residents have signed a resident agreement
Clear rules are in place for important issues
Residents have a role in the management of the home
Management does not provide treatment services as defined by state licensing
Management and staff have signed a code of ethics agreement
The home and grounds meet or exceed the quality of the neighborhood
The residence feels like a home rather than a clinical setting
The MASH Resident Bill of Rights is is made available to residents
A list of local community resources is made available to residents
Code of Ethics
The Code of Ethics must be signed by all home owners, operators, managers, staff, and volunteers. This statement commits the signer to adhere to this code of ethics and to maintain a vital concern for the lives and well being of all persons.
1. At all times, you will treat the residents you serve with dignity and respect.
2. You will work to maintain an alcohol and drug free environment.
3. You will work to maintain quality housing that meets or exceeds the quality of its neighborhood. You will demonstrate activities that benefit the home's neighbors.
4. You will remain sober while serving residents. If you have a history of substance use disorder, you must be at least 1 year continuously sober and actively involved in a program of recovery.
5. You will ensure no physical violence or threats of violence are ever tolerated in the home.
6. You will never become romantically or sexually involved with a resident you are serving or anyone the sober home is assisting.
7. You will never become involved with the financial or business affairs of a resident you are serving. This includes borrowing or lending money, buying or selling property, and any other financial transactions.
8. You will inform residents upon intake of any fee which they may be charged. You will also disclose home policies regarding living expenses and deposits. Furthermore, you will inform a resident when any fees are paid on their behalf by a third party.
9. You will respect the privacy and personal rights of all residents.
10. You will ensure that no weapons are allowed on the home's premises.
11. You will ensure residents are properly oriented to the home's emergency procedures.
12. You will comply with nondiscriminatory state and federal requirements.
13. You will adhere to the policies and standards set forth by MASH.
If a sober home owner or manager is found to have violated any of the above code of ethics of the Minnesota Association of Sober Homes, after receiving appropriate notice and an opportunity to be heard, such violation may subject the membership of the individual to review or penalties. These penalties may include, but are not limited to: public reprimand, suspension, or revocation of membership. This action does not curtail any of the other rights and remedies of the parties to redress, nor shall a determination of a violation rise to the level of proof as if the matter were heard in a court of competent jurisdiction.