What Do You Need To Know About Unattended Death Cleanup?
911 Bio Clean offers unattended death cleanup in Glendale, Hollywood, CA, Inglewood, Los Angeles, Pasadena, CA and surrounding areas.
1) First things first: immediate actions / legal stuff
Do NOT disturb the scene. If the death is unattended (no medical personnel present), call emergency services / local police right away so they can investigate and the medical examiner/coroner can determine cause/time of death.
Police/ME involvement is normal. An unattended death typically triggers an investigation and the medical examiner may need the body and scene for examination. Cleanup companies usually can’t begin until the ME/police release the scene.
Chain of custody / property access. Expect law enforcement to secure the scene and provide paperwork when it’s released. Keep records of who had access and when.
2) Why this is specialized work (risks)
Bloodborne pathogens and biohazards: blood and bodily fluids can carry hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, and other pathogens. Even dried fluids can be hazardous.
Airborne contaminants & odors: decomposition produces gases and strong odors that require specialized odor control and ventilation.
Chemical hazards: some cleaners/biocides are hazardous if used improperly.
Emotional/trauma exposure: the sensory impact of scenes of death can be traumatic for families.
3) What professional unattended-death cleanup/forensic cleaners do
Scene assessment & containment. Determine affected areas, contain to prevent cross-contamination.
Removal of biological matter. Safe removal and disposal of blood, fluids, contaminated porous materials (sometimes items must be discarded).
Cleaning, disinfection & deodorization. Use EPA/OSHA-recommended disinfectants and techniques; HEPA filtration and negative-pressure ventilation may be used.
Porous vs. non-porous decisions. Porous materials (couches, carpets, mattresses) often must be removed; hard surfaces can be cleaned and disinfected.
Waste disposal. Biohazardous waste is bagged, labeled, and disposed of under local regulations.
Documentation. Before/after photos, itemized reports for families and insurers.
Restoration & repairs. Some companies also do odor sealing, paint, floor replacement, and minor structural repairs; others subcontract.
4) Practical logistics & timeline
When cleanup can start: only after police/ME release the scene — could be hours to days depending on the investigation.
How long it takes: depends on severity and size of the area — from several hours for a small bathroom to multiple days for large scenes or heavy decomposition.
Access & keys: who has legal authority to hire cleanup (next of kin, property owner, executor). The company will want clear authorization in writing. Would you like to discuss? Please give us a call, or email us!