Losing a loved one is never easy. When you have the task of dealing with their estate and possessions, these trying timed can be even more difficult. However, if the deceased was a hoarder, managing the situation on your own can be next to impossible. Below are five tips on how to clean up after a hoarder passes away in Elmira, NY.
1. Call the Home Insurance Company
Depending on the company and the coverage, some home insurance plans could help pay for fixing up damage to the house or possibly even with the cleanup. While their insurance may not cover these expenses, it’s certainly worth looking into.
2. Assemble a Team
Whatever you do, don’t try to clean up the house of a hoarder by yourself. At the very least, you should assemble a team of friends and family. Sometimes you may need to call in the help of a professional cleanup company or even a biohazard cleanup crew to remove any potential hazards before tackling the rest.
3. Proper Protective Gear
Depending on the severity of the situation, you could need significantly more advanced protective equipment than mere gloves and masks. You don’t know what biological contaminants might be lurking in the home, so it’s best to stay protected at all times. Hiring a team of disaster restoration professionals helps ensure that any contaminants will be dealt with properly and thoroughly without putting yourself in harm’s way.
4. Divide and Conquer
Separate everything into three main categories: items to throw away, items to donate or sell, and items to keep. Unfortunately, some items may not end up being salvageable despite their sentimental value. Make sure any items that could be contaminated with mold or other biological agents are disposed of properly and that you take all the necessary steps to prevent cross-contamination.
Whether you need help with hoarding and clutter relief, biohazard cleanup, or disinfection, we have the expertise to get the job done right. Contact ServiceMaster of the Tri-Counties today to schedule clean out services to help bring you the peace of mind you deserve.
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