A practical guide for families navigating the search for structured, accountable recovery housing. Written by people who've been through it.
Most families go into this process with no framework for evaluation. This guide changes that — so you can ask the right questions, spot the warning signs, and make a confident decision.
The right questions reveal what the house actually values — and where it cuts corners. We give you the list that matters most.
No drug testing, no structure, no accountability, high turnover — these are signs the house isn't actually supporting recovery.
Adjustment looks different for everyone. Understanding the arc of the first month sets realistic expectations for your loved one — and for you.
The hardest part for families: knowing when to help and when to step back. We break down the difference and what it looks like in practice.
Sober living pricing varies widely. We explain what's typically included, what to watch for in billing, and what the self-pay model means for families.
Not all recovery housing is the same. NARR certification (National Alliance for Recovery Residences) sets measurable standards for structure and accountability.
Enter your name and email — we'll send the guide right to your inbox instantly.
Choosing a sober living home is one of the most consequential decisions in a recovery journey. The wrong placement can mean relapse. The right one can save a life.
This guide was built to help families cut through the noise — because most "comparison" content is written by the houses themselves, not by people who have navigated the decision from your side.
"We didn't know what questions to ask. After downloading this guide, we felt prepared for every tour — and we caught red flags at two places we almost chose."
— Family member, Iowa
AfterHouse Recovery has guided dozens of families through the sober living decision. This guide distills what we've learned.
Answers to the most common questions about this resource.
Yes — completely free. Enter your name and email and the guide is sent to your inbox instantly. We don't ask for a phone number, don't require payment, and don't enroll you in anything ongoing.
No. We send the guide and that's it. If you want to reach us, you can contact us at our contact page or call 515-518-9417 directly.
The guide helps you evaluate that question. AfterHouse is structured for men in early recovery who want accountability and peer support. We're not a treatment center — we're a step down from treatment. Learn about our program →
The guide covers this. Generally, sober living is the right fit when someone has completed detox or a treatment program and needs structured, accountable housing to transition back to daily life — not a clinical setting, but not isolation either.
Yes. Enter their email address in the form and it will be delivered directly to them. You can also share the direct link: afterhouserecov.com/site/family-guide.html
If your loved one is ready to move into structured sober living, start the application — it takes about 10 minutes.