Understanding the Crime Scene Cleanup Process: What to Expect

When tragedy strikes, understanding what comes next can provide some comfort during an incredibly difficult time. Crime scene cleanup is a specialized service that many people don't know exists until they need it. This guide will walk you through exactly what to expect when you hire professional crime scene cleaners.

What is Crime Scene Cleanup?

Crime scene cleanup, also known as biohazard remediation, is the process of cleaning and sanitizing a location where a violent crime, accident, or traumatic event has occurred. This isn't like regular cleaning—it requires specialized training, equipment, and certifications to handle potentially dangerous biological materials safely.

Professional crime scene cleaners are trained to handle:

• Blood and bodily fluids
• Tissue matter
• Pathogens and infectious diseases
• Fingerprint dust and tear gas residue
• Odor elimination
• Structural damage from the event

The Cleanup Process: Step by Step

1. Initial Contact and Assessment

When you contact a crime scene cleanup company, they'll typically respond within 1-2 hours for emergencies. The first step is a thorough assessment of the scene to determine the scope of work needed. This assessment is usually free and helps establish an accurate estimate.

During this phase, the technician will:

• Evaluate the affected area
• Identify all biohazardous materials
• Assess structural damage
• Create a detailed cleanup plan
• Provide an estimate and timeline

2. Establishing Containment

Before any cleanup begins, technicians establish containment barriers to prevent cross-contamination of unaffected areas. This typically involves plastic sheeting, negative air pressure, and designated entry/exit points.

3. Removal of Biohazardous Materials

All biological materials are carefully removed and placed in specially designed biohazard containers. This includes obvious materials as well as any items that cannot be properly sanitized, such as carpet padding, mattresses, or porous materials that have absorbed fluids.

4. Cleaning and Sanitization

Once all biological materials are removed, the area undergoes thorough cleaning with hospital-grade disinfectants. Technicians use EPA-registered products proven to eliminate bloodborne pathogens including HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and MRSA.

5. Odor Elimination

Decomposition and biological matter can leave persistent odors. Professional cleaners use industrial-grade equipment including ozone generators, hydroxyl generators, and thermal foggers to completely eliminate odors—not just mask them.

6. Final Inspection and Verification

Before considering the job complete, technicians conduct thorough testing to ensure the area is safe for occupancy. This may include ATP testing (which measures biological contamination) and visual inspection under specialized lighting.

How Long Does Cleanup Take?

The duration of crime scene cleanup varies significantly based on several factors:

• Small, contained incidents: 4-6 hours
• Single-room cleanup: 8-12 hours
• Multiple rooms: 1-3 days
• Extensive scenes: Several days to a week

Your cleanup team will provide a more accurate estimate after the initial assessment.

Insurance and Payment

Many people are surprised to learn that crime scene cleanup is typically covered by homeowner's or renter's insurance. At CrimeTech Services, we work directly with insurance companies to handle billing and documentation, so you don't have to worry about navigating the claims process during an already difficult time.

Most of our clients pay little to nothing out of pocket.

Why Professional Cleanup is Essential

Attempting to clean a crime scene yourself is not only emotionally traumatic but also dangerous. Blood and bodily fluids can contain infectious diseases that remain viable for days or even weeks. Professional cleaners have:

• Proper personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Training in bloodborne pathogen safety
• Access to commercial-grade disinfectants
• Equipment for proper disposal of biohazardous waste
• Insurance and licensing requirements

Choosing a Crime Scene Cleanup Company

When selecting a cleanup company, look for:

• 24/7 availability
• IICRC certification
• OSHA compliance
• Experience with insurance companies
• Compassionate, professional staff
• Comprehensive services

At CrimeTech Services, we understand that you're going through one of the worst times of your life. Our team combines technical expertise with genuine compassion to help you through this difficult transition. We're available 24/7 at (719) 201-2726.