Cleanup and decontamination of crime scenes including homicides and assaults.
Find verified crime scene cleanup professionals in your area.
Crime scene cleanup (also called biohazard remediation or trauma cleanup) is the licensed cleaning, disinfection, and disposal of blood, bodily fluids, and other regulated medical waste left behind after a violent crime, accident, or unattended death. The work is regulated under OSHA bloodborne pathogen standards and only begins once law enforcement releases the scene.
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.
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.
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.
Industrial ozone generators or hydroxyl machines eliminate odors that cleaning alone cannot remove.
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.
Companies typically charge $75–$250/hour for biohazard remediation labor.
Want more detail? Read a deeper breakdown of crime scene cleanup pricing.
Use our free calculator to see your specific cost range, what insurance typically covers, and whether you may qualify for victim compensation funds.
Homeowners and renters insurance policies often cover crime scene cleanup, typically under the additional living expenses or property damage provisions. Many states also reimburse up to $2,250 in cleanup costs through crime-victim compensation funds.
Need a step-by-step guide? Read how insurance coverage works for biohazard cleanup.
Most licensed biohazard companies operate 24/7 and can be on-site within 1–2 hours of your call. Faster response reduces structural damage and total cost, so do not wait for daylight hours.
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. Many states also offer crime-victim compensation that covers cleanup separately from insurance.
Two common options: (1) Most states reimburse up to $2,250 through crime-victim compensation funds when the incident was a violent crime — your local victim advocate or DA office can help apply. (2) Reputable cleanup companies will bill insurance directly and front the cost while the claim is processed.
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.
Yes — reputable companies hold OSHA bloodborne pathogen training, ABRA or NIDS biohazard certification, and state-level biohazard waste hauler permits. Always verify certifications before signing an authorization form.
Cleanup companies do not assist with investigations and only begin work after law enforcement formally releases the scene. They can, however, coordinate with detectives or coroners about timing.
Discretion is standard. Technicians arrive in unmarked vehicles, wear plain PPE, and do not display company branding. Most jobs look identical to a routine cleaning service from the street.
No. Most families choose not to be on-site during cleanup. You will need to sign authorization paperwork, which can often be handled remotely via e-signature.
Industry-specific guidance for the buyers who request crime scene cleanup most often.
Biohazard cleanup services for residential rental property owners.
Read the guide →Biohazard remediation vendors for multi-unit portfolios.
Read the guide →Discreet biohazard cleanup for hotels, motels, and short-term rentals.
Read the guide →Biohazard remediation for K-12 districts, colleges, and campus facilities.
Read the guide →Find licensed biohazard remediation vendors for claims management.
Read the guide →Biohazard remediation for pre-listing prep and stigmatized property recovery.
Read the guide →Get free quotes from verified crime scene cleanup professionals. No per-call fees, no obligation.
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 and provide a manifest.
It is legal in most states but strongly discouraged. Bloodborne pathogens like HIV and hepatitis B can survive on surfaces for days. Improper cleanup puts you at serious health risk, may invalidate insurance claims, and can violate state biohazard disposal regulations.
Many companies handle full restoration (flooring, drywall, paint) in addition to remediation, or coordinate directly with a licensed restoration contractor. Ask up front whether the quote includes restoration or only biohazard remediation.