The loss of a loved one is always painful, and that pain can be compounded when the death is unattended—when someone passes away alone and isn’t found for days or longer. Beyond the emotional toll, the affected area must be made safe again through careful, specialized cleanup.
Understanding Unattended Death
An unattended death can result from natural causes, accidents, or other circumstances where the deceased isn’t discovered immediately. As time passes, natural decomposition releases fluids and gases that can permeate porous materials (flooring, subfloor, walls, furniture). The resulting biohazards, odors, and structural contamination require more than standard cleaning to address safely and thoroughly.
Why Professional Cleanup Is Essential
1) Health & Safety
Decomposition can harbor dangerous pathogens (bacteria and viruses). Exposure without proper training and protection can pose serious health risks.
2) Specialized Methods & Compliance
Professionals use appropriate PPE, industry-grade disinfectants, containment procedures, and regulated disposal methods that meet local and federal requirements.
3) Emotional Support & Discretion
A trained third party provides compassionate, discreet service that shields loved ones from additional trauma during a difficult time.
4) Thoroughness & Efficiency
Specialized tools and proven protocols help ensure contaminants are removed at their source, surfaces are decontaminated correctly, and odors are neutralized rather than masked.
What a Professional Cleanup Involves
Assessment & Containment
Inspect and map the affected areas (including subflooring and adjacent rooms).
Establish containment to prevent cross-contamination and protect occupants.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Technicians wear appropriate PPE (e.g., gloves, suits, respirators) to protect themselves and prevent spread.
Removal & Regulated Disposal
Carefully remove affected items and biohazardous materials.
Package, label, and transport waste according to biohazard regulations.
Cleaning & Disinfection
Clean visible contamination, then apply EPA-registered disinfectants with correct dwell times.
Address porous materials (carpet, padding, subfloor, drywall) that cannot be fully decontaminated and must be removed.
Odor Neutralization
Treat odors at their source (e.g., impacted subfloor or wall cavities).
Use professional odor-neutralization techniques rather than cover-ups.
Structural Remediation (When Needed)
Remove and replace unsalvageable materials (e.g., sections of subfloor or drywall).
Prepare the area for any follow-on restoration work.
Verification
Perform a final inspection to ensure the space is safe, clean, and free of persistent odors.
What To Do Immediately (For Families, Property Owners, or Managers)
Contact authorities first if the death has not been legally attended.
Do not attempt to clean the scene yourself or move items—this can be hazardous and may complicate any investigation or insurance claim.
Limit access to the area (people and pets).
Document and notify relevant parties (property manager/landlord, insurer).
Arrange professional biohazard cleanup as soon as feasible.
