The work
What happens during the cleanup
After the police and the coroner have finished, the company looks at the room, removes what cannot be cleaned and disinfects the rest. You do not need to be there. If discretion matters, such as an unmarked vehicle, ask for it when you call.
Tell the company about any belongings you want to keep, such as photographs, papers or a piece of furniture, and whether you want to see the room before or after.
Paying for it
Who pays
Homeowner and renter policies sometimes cover cleanup after a death in the home. Ask your agent before work starts. Nobody can promise coverage in advance.
South Dakota's victim compensation law defines its cleanup expense around a homicide scene (SDCL 23A-28B-1). If you are unsure whether it applies, call the program at (605) 773-6317.
Other situations
Something else happened?
- Crime scene cleanupAfter a homicide, assault or other violent crime, once police release the scene.
- Unattended death cleanupWhen someone died at home and was not found for some time.
- Blood and bodily fluid cleanupAfter an injury, a fall or a medical emergency at home or at work.
- Hoarding with biohazardsHomes where waste, sharps or spoiled food make clearing unsafe.
- Infectious disease cleanupCleaning and disinfecting after an illness, with the right products.
- Vehicle biohazard cleanupBlood or bodily fluids in a car, truck or van.