An unattended death—one that occurs without witnesses and where the body is not discovered immediately—presents a uniquely challenging and sensitive situation. Beyond the emotional trauma experienced by family and friends, an unattended death often leaves behind a significant biohazard scene requiring specialized cleaning. This process, known as biohazard remediation or crime scene cleanup (though not all unattended deaths involve a crime), is crucial for restoring a property to a safe, habitable condition. Understanding the steps involved and knowing who to contact can significantly ease the burden during an incredibly difficult time.
The Immediate Aftermath: Safety and Notification
The discovery of an unattended death should trigger two immediate priorities: safety and notification of authorities.
1. Do Not Enter or Disturb the Scene
The most critical initial action is to avoid entering the immediate area where the body was found or where decomposition may have occurred. An unattended death scene is a biohazard. Decomposition begins rapidly, and the resulting biological materials (blood, bodily fluids, tissue, and odor-causing compounds) can harbor pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants. Disturbing the scene can also compromise a potential investigation or spread contaminants further.
2. Contact Emergency Services
Immediately call the local emergency number (e.g., 911 in the U.S. and Canada) or local police department. They will dispatch law enforcement and medical examiners/coroners. Their primary role is to secure the scene, confirm the death, identify the deceased, and determine the cause of death. The cleanup cannot begin until the authorities have completed their investigation and officially released the scene.
Why Professional Cleanup is Essential
While a tragic event, an unattended death is primarily a biohazard situation that standard cleaning services are neither equipped nor legally permitted to handle.
Biohazard Risks and Pathogens
When a person dies and remains undiscovered for a period, the body releases fluids and tissues as it decomposes. These substances contain high concentrations of bacteria, which may include harmful pathogens. The environment can become saturated, and contaminants may soak into porous materials like subflooring, drywall, upholstery, and concrete. Airborne bacteria and strong, lingering odors are also major concerns.
Structural Damage
The breakdown of bodily fluids can be corrosive, potentially causing permanent damage to structural elements of the home, including wood, carpeting, and even metal. Merely cleaning the surface is insufficient; proper remediation involves removing and safely disposing of all contaminated materials.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
Expecting family members or friends to undertake the cleanup is an unfair and potentially traumatizing burden. Professional cleaners are trained to approach these scenes with discretion and compassion, allowing loved ones to focus on the grieving process.
What Professional Biohazard Cleaners Do
Professional unattended death cleanup companies specialize in remediation, decontamination, and deodorization. They adhere to strict safety regulations, including those set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), to protect their workers and the public.
1. Assessment and Containment
The process begins with a thorough assessment of the damage. Technicians, wearing full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), will establish a containment area using plastic sheeting and negative air pressure machines to prevent the spread of odors and contaminants to unaffected parts of the property.
2. Remediation and Removal
This is the most critical phase. Technicians will remove all visible biological material. They then identify and carefully remove all materials that have been saturated or potentially contaminated, which can include flooring, furniture, rugs, and sections of drywall. Everything removed is considered medical waste and must be packaged, transported, and disposed of according to federal and state biohazard regulations.
3. Decontamination and Sanitization
Once the bulk of the contaminated material is removed, the remaining structure is treated with hospital-grade disinfectants and sanitizers. These specialized chemicals are designed to kill bacteria and viruses and neutralize contaminants on non-porous surfaces. Multiple applications and extensive scrubbing may be required.
4. Deodorization
The powerful, persistent odor associated with decomposition can permeate a structure. Standard air fresheners or ventilation will not suffice. Professional cleanup utilizes specialized techniques like thermal fogging or ozone treatment to break down odor-causing molecules, completely eliminating the smell at its source.
5. Final Clearance and Restoration
After the scene is fully decontaminated and deodorized, the company may conduct final ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) testing to ensure all biological material has been successfully eliminated. They can then perform minor repairs, such as patching drywall or installing new subflooring, to prepare the property for final reconstruction or renovation.
Who to Call: Identifying the Right Professionals
Once the authorities have released the scene (often signified by the removal of police tape), it is time to contact a professional biohazard remediation company.
Biohazard Remediation Companies
These are the primary service providers for unattended death cleanup. They are often referred to as crime scene cleaners or trauma cleanup specialists. When vetting a company, look for:
- 24/7 Availability: Tragedy doesn’t adhere to business hours. A reliable company will offer immediate, discreet service.
- Certification and Training: Ensure they are trained in OSHA regulations for bloodborne pathogens (29 CFR 1910.1030) and adhere to all proper disposal protocols.
- Insurance and Bonding: They should carry specialized liability insurance for biohazard work.
- Discretion and Compassion: Given the sensitive nature of the work, the company should emphasize respectful, confidential service.
Insurance Companies
Before calling a cleaner, or immediately after, contact the property owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance company.
- Coverage Assessment: Many standard policies do cover biohazard remediation, often under the sections for sudden and accidental damage, or similar peril clauses. However, policies vary, and cleanup can be costly.
- Filing a Claim: The insurance company can advise on the process, coverage limits, and may even have a list of preferred or approved cleanup vendors.
Victim Services and Support
While not directly involved in the cleanup, local victim services organizations, grief counselors, or community support groups can offer essential emotional and psychological support to those affected by the loss and the difficult process of remediation.
A Note on Cost and Financial Assistance
The cost of unattended death cleanup can range significantly, often from a few thousand to well over ten thousand dollars, depending on the extent of the contamination and the materials requiring removal.
As noted, homeowner’s insurance is often the first line of financial defense. In cases where the deceased was a victim of a crime, or if the cleanup involves the removal of a large amount of trauma-related biohazard, some states have Victim Compensation Funds that may offer financial assistance for related costs, including cleanup. It is crucial to explore all available financial avenues during this stressful period.
In Summary
The aftermath of an unattended death is a complex emergency that requires professionalism, sensitivity, and specialized expertise. By following the crucial initial steps of securing the scene and notifying authorities, and then immediately engaging a certified biohazard remediation company, loved ones can safely and responsibly navigate the challenging process of property restoration, allowing them the necessary time and space to grieve the loss. The process is a necessary bridge from a tragic event back to safety and normalcy.