In short
Before signing an assisted living contract, ask for every fee in writing, how care levels are assessed and priced, how often and how much rates have gone up, what would require your parent to move out, the notice period, refund rules, and how the community handles a hospital stay. NIA advises getting detailed information about costs and included services.
Written by the Senior Choice Care teamUpdated October 9, 2026. Facts are checked against the sources listed at the end of this page. General information; every family is different.
Questions about the contract
Questions families ask
What should I look for in an assisted living contract?
Fees, care-level pricing, increases, discharge reasons, notice and refunds.
Can assisted living raise rates?
Usually yes, under the contract terms. Ask about the history.
Can assisted living evict a resident?
Contracts list reasons a resident may have to leave. Read that section closely.
Should someone review the contract?
Many families ask a lawyer or trusted adviser to read it first.