How Much Does Unattended Death Cleanup Cost?

The biggest cost factors

Cleanup can range from a smaller affected area to a complex property restoration issue. The cost is usually driven by the amount of contamination, odor, affected materials, access, disposal requirements, and documentation needs.

• How long the death was undiscovered
• Whether flooring, subflooring, walls, furniture, or contents were affected
• Whether decomposition odor has spread
• Whether the property is a home, apartment, estate, vehicle, or commercial space

Odor and porous materials can change the scope

Decomposition odor can move beyond the visible area. Porous materials may need more than surface cleaning, and the source of the odor must be addressed rather than covered up.

The first call should clarify the scope

A useful first call should identify the property type, affected area, timing, access details, whether authorities have released the scene, and whether insurance may be involved.