If you're reading this, you probably have a scene that needs to be cleaned and you don't know what the process looks like. That uncertainty adds to the stress of an already unbearable situation. Let me walk you through exactly what happens, step by step.
I've worked thousands of trauma scenes — suicides, homicides, accidents, unattended deaths. Every scene is unique, but the process is consistent.
Before Cleanup Begins
Law Enforcement Must Release the Scene
No cleanup can begin until law enforcement officially releases the scene. This happens after:
- The body has been removed by the medical examiner/coroner
- Evidence collection is complete
- The investigating officer provides verbal or written release
This can take hours to days depending on the circumstances. Do NOT clean anything before release — even well-intentioned cleanup can destroy evidence and create legal liability.
Who Calls the Cleanup Company?
- Property owner — if you own the property, you authorize the cleanup
- Next of kin — if the deceased was the property owner, next of kin or the estate representative can authorize
- Landlord — for rental properties
- Law enforcement may provide referrals — but you're NOT obligated to use the company they suggest. Get your own quotes
The Cleanup Process: Step by Step
Step 1: Initial Assessment (30–60 minutes)
The crew arrives in unmarked vehicles (no "BIOHAZARD" signs on the van). A lead technician conducts a walkthrough to assess:
- Type and extent of biohazard contamination
- Affected materials (carpet, hardwood, drywall, concrete, furniture)
- Whether contamination has spread beyond the visible area (fluids seep into cracks, under baseboards, into wall cavities)
- Air quality concerns
- Structural accessibility
You'll receive a written estimate before any work begins. A reputable company will explain what needs to be done and why, in plain language.
Step 2: Containment and Setup (30–60 minutes)
- Plastic barriers and containment zones isolate the affected area
- HEPA air scrubbers filter airborne contaminants
- Negative air pressure prevents cross-contamination
- All technicians don full PPE: Tyvek suits, respirators, double gloves, boot covers, eye protection
Step 3: Biohazard Removal (1–6 hours)
This is the core of the work:
- All visible biohazard material is removed and placed in red biohazard bags or sharps containers
- Contaminated porous materials are removed: carpet and padding, affected drywall (cut 12+ inches above visible contamination), insulation, fabric, mattresses, upholstered furniture
- Non-porous surfaces (concrete, metal, tile) are scrubbed and treated
- Subflooring is inspected — if fluids penetrated, affected sections are removed
All biohazard waste is documented, transported in DOT-compliant containers, and disposed of at a licensed medical waste facility. The company should provide waste disposal documentation.
Step 4: Decontamination (1–3 hours)
- Hospital-grade disinfectants applied to all affected surfaces
- Multiple rounds of treatment with appropriate dwell times
- Enzyme-based cleaners for biological material that has soaked into porous surfaces
- UV light inspection to verify no visible biological material remains
Step 5: Odor Treatment (2–24 hours)
Depending on severity:
- Thermal fogging — penetrates the same spaces the odor-causing agents reached
- Ozone treatment — breaks down odor molecules at the molecular level. Area must be vacant
- Hydroxyl generators — for residual odor in occupied areas
- Sealing — shellac-based primer seals remaining odor into subfloor or structural elements
Step 6: Verification
- Visual inspection under UV light
- ATP testing (measures biological contamination on surfaces)
- Air quality testing if needed
- Written clearance certificate that the area meets safe habitability standards
Step 7: Restoration (Separate, Optional)
Some cleanup companies also handle restoration (replacing drywall, painting, installing new flooring). Others coordinate with a general contractor. This phase typically happens after the cleanup is complete and verified.
Timeline and Costs
| Scene Type | Cleanup Time | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small blood cleanup (minor injury, contained) | 2–4 hours | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Suicide (single room) | 4–8 hours | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Homicide (single room) | 4–12 hours | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Unattended death (1–7 days) | 6–12 hours | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Advanced decomposition (7+ days) | 8–24 hours | $8,000 – $25,000+ |
| Multi-room scene | 12–48 hours | $10,000 – $30,000+ |
For a detailed cost breakdown, see our crime scene cleanup cost guide.
What You Need to Know as a Family Member
- You don't have to be present. Most families choose not to be at the property during cleanup. That's completely normal and recommended
- You don't have to see it. If you haven't been to the scene, don't feel obligated to go before cleanup. The cleanup crew handles everything
- Personal items can be preserved. Tell the crew if there are specific items in the area you want saved (photos, documents, jewelry). They'll clean and preserve them when possible
- Insurance often covers it. Contact your homeowner's or renter's insurance. See our insurance coverage guide
- It will be done right. Professional cleanup restores the space to a safe, habitable condition. The area will be clean, decontaminated, and odor-free when the crew finishes
Need trauma scene cleanup? Call (855) 566-2405 24/7 or find a vetted professional in our directory. We connect you with companies who handle every scene with expertise and compassion.