Cleaning after a death: what happens, and in what order

When a person dies alone at home and the death is only discovered after several days, the home cannot simply be cleaned. Fluids and odours penetrate materials. Specific treatment is needed, for hygiene reasons and so that the family can return to the premises.

Before we step in

The body is taken care of by the competent services and the funeral directors. If the police were involved, we wait until the premises are released. The family or the owner then contacts us, often with a few photos of the room concerned.

The steps

• protection of the team and of unaffected areas;
• removal of contaminated materials: bedding, textiles, sometimes floor coverings;
• cleaning and disinfection of surfaces;
• odour treatment, which may take several visits;
• a final check with you.

Personal belongings

We sort with care. Papers, jewellery, photos and keepsakes are set aside and returned to the family under seal. Items that have been in contact with fluids cannot always be kept: we discuss this with you before throwing anything away.

A difficult moment

For relatives, this is a hard time. You do not need to be present during the intervention. A single contact keeps you informed, and you receive the keys to a clean home.