How Long Does Crime Scene Cleanup Take?
Timelines Based on Different Situations
After a crime, trauma, suicide, or unattended death, the cleanup process is crucial for restoring safety. Many property owners and families wonder: How long does crime scene cleanup take? The answer varies based on the extent of biohazards, the size of the affected area, and necessary decontamination procedures.
At CrimeTech Services in Colorado Springs, CO, we provide fast, thorough, and OSHA-compliant cleanup services. Below, we explain the average timelines for different situations and factors that impact cleanup duration.
Factors That Affect Crime Scene Cleanup Time
Crime scene cleanup isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Some jobs take a few hours, while others require multiple days due to biohazard contamination, odor removal, and restoration needs. Key factors affecting cleanup time include:
✅ Type of Incident – A minor blood spill takes less time than an unattended death with decomposition.
✅ Size of the Affected Area – A single-room cleanup may take hours, whereas entire homes or businesses can take days.
✅ Extent of Contamination – The more biohazardous material (blood, bodily fluids, tissue), the longer the remediation process.
✅ Odor & Air Quality Issues – Lingering decomposition odors may require ozone treatment and air scrubbing.
✅ Structural Damage & Restoration Needs – If biohazards seep into flooring, drywall, or HVAC systems, cleanup time increases.
Average Timelines for Different Crime Scene Cleanup Situations
1. Homicide or Suicide Cleanup (6-12 Hours)
Crime scenes involving blood, bodily fluids, and forensic chemicals require:
- Biohazard removal (blood, tissue, contaminated objects)
- Deep cleaning & disinfection with EPA-approved solutions
- Odor removal & air purification (if necessary)
For a small to medium-sized area, cleanup typically takes 6-12 hours. However, larger scenes with excessive contamination may require a full day or longer.
2. Unattended Death & Decomposition Cleanup (1-3 Days)
An unattended death (where the body is undiscovered for days or weeks) poses serious biohazard risks. Decomposition leads to:
- Strong odors requiring ozone or hydroxyl treatment
- Fluids penetrating flooring, subfloors, and walls
- Pest infestations (flies, maggots, bacteria growth)
These cases require multiple days (usually 1-3 days) due to the need for deep decontamination, odor neutralization, and possible structural repairs.
3. Blood Spill Cleanup (2-6 Hours)
Small blood spills (such as after an injury or medical emergency) can usually be cleaned and disinfected within a few hours. Larger areas or spills that seep into carpets or furniture may take longer.
4. Industrial or Workplace Accidents (6-24 Hours)
When workplace accidents involve hazardous materials, machinery, or multiple injuries, cleanup can take several hours to a full day. If the scene requires OSHA-compliant hazardous waste disposal or structural repairs, the process may extend to 2+ days.
5. Hoarding with Biohazards (Multiple Days to Weeks)
Hoarding sites containing decomposed animals, mold, blood, or human waste take significantly longer to clean. Depending on the level of contamination, hoarding cleanups can take anywhere from several days to multiple weeks.
Step-by-Step Crime Scene Cleanup Process
Regardless of the situation, CrimeTech Services follows a thorough OSHA and EPA-compliant process:
1️⃣ Assessment & Hazard Containment – We evaluate contamination and set up safety zones.
2️⃣ Biohazard Removal & Disposal – All blood, fluids, and affected materials are removed.
3️⃣ Deep Cleaning & Disinfection – We use hospital-grade disinfectants to eliminate pathogens.
4️⃣ Odor Control & Air Purification – HEPA air scrubbers and ozone treatment neutralize odors.
5️⃣ Final Inspection & Clearance – ATP testing ensures the space is 100% decontaminated.
Can Crime Scene Cleanup Be Done in One Day?
Yes, in many cases, crime scene cleanup can be completed in a single day (6-12 hours), especially for:
✔ Small blood spills
✔ Minor trauma incidents
✔ Homicide or suicide scenes in contained areas
However, decomposition cleanup, large-scale contamination, or hoarding situations may take multiple days.
Why Choose CrimeTech Services in Colorado Springs?
✅ 24/7 Emergency Cleanup – We respond fast to minimize health risks.
✅ OSHA & EPA-Certified Experts – Our team is fully trained in biohazard remediation.
✅ Compassionate & Discreet Service – We handle each case with professionalism and respect.
✅ Insurance Assistance – We help navigate claims for crime scene cleanup coverage.
Final Thoughts
The time it takes to clean a crime scene depends on the extent of biohazards, the affected area, and necessary decontamination steps. Whether it’s a minor blood spill or an unattended death requiring extensive remediation, CrimeTech Services in Colorado Springs provides fast, thorough, and legally compliant cleanup.
Need Crime Scene Cleanup? Call CrimeTech Services Today!
For professional biohazard remediation in Colorado Springs, CO, contact CrimeTech Services—available 24/7 to restore safety and peace of mind.
If you or someone you know requires crime scene cleanup services in Colorado Springs, Fountain, Security-Widefield, Falcon, Peyton, Monument, Pueblo and nearby cities, reach out to CrimeTech Services at 719-201-2726 and a certified biohazard cleanup agent will handle the situation with care and professionalism.