The Horrors of Illegal Recovery Homes

Finding stable housing is an important part of the recovery journey. But for some individuals in early recovery, securing a safe and supportive place to live is challenging, especially if they have strained relationships with family and friends. In some areas, limited housing options can lead those in recovery to unregulated living arrangements, making the transition even more difficult.

What Is Recovery Housing?

Recovery housing—sometimes referred to as halfway houses or sober living homes—provides a safe, structured living environment for individuals in recovery. Recovery housing offers a substance-free space where residents can focus on recovery while building healthy routines and support networks. Some recovery housing follows specific guidelines and may require residents to attend 12-step meetings or participate in outpatient treatment. While the amenities, services, and rules vary, the goals of recovery housing are the same: to help residents build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.

When Recovery Housing Lacks Oversight

In 20214, Philadelphia was the site of a case involving unregulated recovery housing. Jeffrey Jackson, an addiction counselor at Addiction Medicine & Health Advocates (AMHA), a methadone maintenance program, operated several unlicensed recovery homes across the city. While recovery housing can provide stability and support for individuals in recovery, Jackson’s properties failed to meet basic living standards, renting rooms to current and former AMHA patients in dilapidated homes that city officials deemed “unfit for human habitation.” Jackson, whose business was named ‘Dignity Recovery,’ charged residents $600 per month, which included continued access to a methadone program.

Jackson didn’t have the necessary rental licenses and zoning permits, and at least one property containing nearly 35 beds was severely deteriorated, with reports of bed bugs and rodent infestations. Some residents who sought to leave allegedly faced threats of losing access to methadone.

Unregulated Recovery Housing Is a National Problem

Unregulated recovery housing isn’t just a problem in Philadelphia—it’s an issue nationwide. In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, local news reported that Clayton Alfred White was charged with grand larceny and illegally distributing drugs while operating unlicensed recovery centers. Authorities discovered that White had opened similar facilities in Georgia and North Carolina. Unfortunately, cases like this highlight the risks of unregulated recovery housing. Some landlords and property managers take advantage of individuals in early recovery, collecting rent—sometimes through Social Security checks, disability benefits, or food assistance—while providing little to no support services.

What Is the National Alliance of Recovery Residences (NARR)?

The National Alliance of Recovery Residences (NARR) works to help the public understand what a quality recovery residence is and what it isn’t. In 2011, NARR established a national standards and certification process that its affiliates use to certify recovery residences. A national advocate for effective recovery homes, NARR also champions the rights of those living in recovery residences. With growing support on a national level, the hope is that stories like the ones in Philadelphia and Myrtle Beach will become less damaging.

Benefits of a Licensed Sober Living Home

A sober living home should provide a safe, stable environment that supports long-term recovery. These homes maintain a substance-free space and encourage residents to participate in 12-step meetings, group therapy, or other recovery programs. Residents are encouraged to develop and work toward goals such as finding employment, continuing their education, or improving financial stability.

Choosing a licensed and regulated sober living home comes with many benefits, including:

• Ongoing guidance and aftercare throughout the recovery process.
• Increased likelihood of securing stable employment.
• Reduced psychiatric symptoms and improved mental health.
• Lower risk of criminal activity or legal issues.
• A strong support network of peers in recovery.
• Transportation to outpatient treatment or intensive outpatient treatment (IOP).

What to Look for When Choosing Recovery Housing

Finding the right recovery housing is an important step in recovery. Quality recovery housing should provide a safe, structured, and supportive environment. If you’re looking for recovery housing, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recommends keeping these qualities in mind:

• Licensing and accreditation: Ensure the recovery home meets local regulations and is certified by a reputable organization such as the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR) or a state-level recovery housing association.
• Safe, substance-free environment: The recovery home should have clear policies prohibiting substance use, with regular monitoring to maintain a substance-free space.
• Qualified staff: Look for recovery homes with qualified staff who support residents in their recovery
• Clear house rules and structure: A well-run recovery home will have guidelines on curfews, drug testing, participation in treatment or recovery programs, and responsibilities to help residents build healthy routines.
• Access to recovery support: Quality recovery housing can connect residents with evidence-based recovery services as needed, such as 12-step meetings, counseling, outpatient treatment, and support groups.
• Affordable and transparent costs: Ensure fees and rent are clearly stated. Be cautious of homes that demand government benefits or other financial resources without offering legitimate support.
• A positive and supportive community: Recovery housing should foster a culture of support, where residents encourage one another in their recovery journeys.

Does Insurance Cover Sober Living Recovery Homes?

Insurance coverage for sober living recovery homes can vary. Some health insurance plans may cover the costs if the home is part of a licensed treatment program or provides clinical services. The best way to find out if your health insurance will pay for sober living is to call your health insurance provider directly or verify your coverage now using our online verification tool.

Find Sober Living Programs

If you’re looking for a sober living home, American Addiction Centers (AAC) can help. To learn more about sober living programs and other treatment options, including inpatient and outpatient rehab and aftercare services, contact a caring admissions navigator for free at . You can also use our directory, which allows you to search for addiction treatment services nationwide and filter by different criteria, including ‘Aftercare & Sober Living.’