Wait until the property has been released
If the police or coroner's officer have been involved, the property can't be cleaned until they have finished and released it. Ask them to confirm when access is allowed and who holds the keys. Keep windows and doors closed in the meantime unless you've been told otherwise, as opening them can spread odour to neighbouring properties.
Why you shouldn't clean it yourself
Bodily fluids can carry blood-borne viruses and bacteria, and they soak through carpets, underlay, mattresses and into floorboards and subfloors. Household cleaning products don't reach contamination below the surface, so odour returns and health risks remain. Contaminated materials also have to be removed as clinical waste, which needs a registered carrier and the right paperwork.
Who to contact
Speak to the property's insurer early, whether that's the landlord's buildings policy or the contents policy of the person who died, as some policies cover specialist cleaning. If the property is rented, the landlord or housing provider should be told as soon as possible. Executors or next of kin will usually deal with personal belongings.
What a specialist trauma clean involves
A trauma cleaning team assesses the scene, removes affected soft furnishings and flooring, and cuts out contaminated sections of subfloor where needed. Every affected surface is decontaminated, and odour is treated at source using methods such as ozone or hydroxyl treatment. Personal items and documents are set aside, and all contaminated waste is removed as clinical waste.
How long it takes and what it costs
Most residential jobs are completed within one to three days. The cost depends on how long the property was left, the size of the affected area and how far contamination has spread into the structure. A specialist should give a fixed quote after assessing the property, often from photos or a short visit.
Getting the property ready to use again
Once decontamination is complete, you should receive a completion report and waste documentation. The property can then be redecorated, re-floored and, if it's a rental, prepared for the next tenant. If odour is still noticeable, the source hasn't been fully removed and the job isn't finished.
This article is general information, not legal or medical advice. If you need help with a specific situation, call us on 0208 050 7207.
Quick answers
Does the council clean after an unattended death?
Councils don't usually carry out cleaning in private property. Where there is no next of kin, the council may arrange a funeral, but cleaning is normally arranged by the landlord, housing provider or estate.
Can the smell be removed completely?
Yes, in most cases, once all contaminated material has been removed and the area properly treated. Masking products alone won't work.