Bio-One of Fremont decontamination and biohazard cleaning services

Handling the Aftermath: Hoarding and Loss

What to Do in the Aftermath of a Loved One Passing in a Hoarded Home

Experiencing the loss of a loved one is an incredibly challenging and emotional time. When this loss occurs in a hoarder home, the situation becomes even more complex due to the presence of biohazard materials and the need for extensive clean-up. At Bio-One, we understand the difficulties you face and are here to guide you through the immediate aftermath and the process of restoring the home.

Immediate Aftermath: Handling Biohazard Material

If you find that there there is any kind of biohazard material in the home, it's important to take the proper steps to remediate it. If you are handling an unattended death it is likely there is biohazard material present. Here are a few primary steps to take in the immediate aftermath of discovery.

  1. Contact Authorities Immediately:
    • The first and most crucial step is to notify local authorities if need be. This would include the police, or emergency services. They will conduct the necessary investigations and procedures.
  2. Engage Professional Biohazard Cleanup Services:
    • It's essential to hire certified professionals to handle the biohazard materials present. Bio-One's expert team is trained to manage such situations safely and effectively, ensuring the area is sanitized and safe for entry.
    • Ensure anyone entering the home wears appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, masks, and protective clothing, to prevent exposure to hazardous substances.
  3. Document the Scene:
    • Take photographs and make a detailed inventory of the state of the home. This documentation can be vital for insurance purposes and any legal requirements.
    • Gather important legal and financial documents, such as wills, identification, and financial records.

Dealing with the Hoarding Clean-Out and Sanitization

  1. Assessment and Planning:
    • Engage a professional hoarding clean-out service to evaluate the extent of the hoarding. Bio-One’s specialists will develop a thorough clean-out plan tailored to the specific needs of the home.
    • Prioritize safety by ensuring the home’s structural integrity is intact and identifying potential hazards such as mold or pest infestations.
  2. Sorting and Disposal:
    • Identify and secure personal and sentimental items to be preserved.
    • Properly dispose of hazardous materials, including sharp objects and chemicals, ensuring safe handling and disposal.
    • Categorize items for disposal, donation, recycling, or keeping.
  3. Deep Cleaning and Sanitization:
    • Hire professional cleaning services, like those offered by Bio-One, to perform a deep clean and thorough sanitization. This includes addressing all biohazards, mold, and other contaminants.
    • If needed, engage pest control services to eliminate any infestations.
  4. Restoration and Repairs:
    • Assess and repair any structural damage to the home, such as walls, floors, plumbing, or electrical systems.
    • Consider cosmetic improvements like repainting, carpeting, and other enhancements to restore the home to a livable condition.

Accepting Help and Understanding It’s Not Your Fault

Coming to terms with a loved one's passing in a hoarder home can be incredibly difficult. It's important to understand that seeking professional help is not only necessary but a compassionate step towards honoring their memory and ensuring the home is safe and clean. Hoarding is a complex disorder, and it’s not your fault that your loved one struggled with it.

Allowing professionals to handle the biohazard cleanup and hoarding clean-out can provide you with the space and peace of mind to focus on healing and remembering your loved one. At Bio-One, we’re here to support you every step of the way, offering not just our services but our compassion and understanding during this challenging time.


Bio-One Fremont is dedicated to providing professional, compassionate, and effective biohazard cleanup and hoarding clean-out services. If you’re facing the aftermath of a loved one passing in a hoarder home, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help you navigate this difficult journey and restore the home to a safe and livable condition.

Contact Bio-One Fremont:

  • Phone: (925) 369-3096
  • Email: info@bioonefremont.com