Crime Scene Cleanup
Cleanup and decontamination of crime scenes including homicides and assaults.
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What to Expect
Initial assessment
Technicians arrive in unmarked vehicles and assess the scene to determine the extent of contamination, required PPE, and disposal needs. All work is discreet and confidential.
Containment
The affected area is sealed off to prevent cross-contamination. Air filtration equipment is set up as needed to protect the rest of the structure.
Removal and cleaning
All biological matter, contaminated materials, and non-salvageable items are removed and bagged for regulated medical waste disposal. Surfaces are cleaned using EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectants.
Deodorization
Industrial ozone generators or hydroxyl machines eliminate odors that cleaning alone cannot remove.
Clearance testing
Some companies offer ATP testing or third-party environmental testing to confirm the space meets health and safety standards before it is returned to use.
Typical Cost
What affects the cost
- Square footage of the affected area
- Amount of blood and biological material present
- Type of surfaces affected (porous vs. non-porous)
- Location and accessibility of the scene
Get a Personalized Cost Estimate
Use our free calculator to see your specific cost range, what insurance typically covers, and whether you may qualify for victim compensation funds.
Insurance Coverage
Homeowners and renters insurance policies often cover crime scene cleanup, typically under the additional living expenses or property damage provisions. Coverage varies significantly by policy.
- Standard HO-3 homeowners policies may cover cleanup costs after a covered peril such as a violent crime.
- You are not required to use a company your insurance suggests — you can choose any licensed provider.
- Most cleanup companies work directly with insurance adjusters to document and bill costs.
- Landlord policies often include coverage for tenant-related incidents; check your specific policy language.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is crime scene cleanup covered by insurance?
Often yes. Homeowners and renters insurance policies frequently cover biohazard remediation costs after a traumatic event. Contact your insurance provider first and document everything before cleanup begins.
How long does crime scene cleanup take?
Most residential crime scenes are remediated within 4–8 hours. Large or severely contaminated scenes can take multiple days. The company will give you a time estimate after the initial assessment.
Do I have to be present during the cleanup?
No. Most families choose not to be on-site during cleanup. You will need to sign authorization paperwork, which can often be handled remotely.
Is the waste disposal regulated?
Yes. Biological waste from crime scenes is classified as regulated medical waste under federal and state law. Licensed cleanup companies are required to transport and dispose of it through approved medical waste facilities.
Can I clean a crime scene myself?
It is legal but strongly discouraged. Bloodborne pathogens like HIV and hepatitis B can survive on surfaces for days. Improper cleanup puts you at serious health risk and may violate state biohazard disposal regulations.
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