Is a Crime Scene Clean-Up Covered by Insurance?

crime scene tape

Ever watched a movie and wondered who cleans up after a crime? Well, it’s not the emergency services. In fact when it comes to a crime scene clean up it is property owner’s responsibility to (unless the incident took place on council property).

Will insurance cover a crime scene clean-up?

Crime scene insurance may not be on your radar until the unthinkable happens. It is probably something you haven’t even looked for in your insurance policy and while a lot of major companies will cover what is also referred to as biohazard remediation, smaller companies may not, so it is best to take a look at the kind of policy you have. Also insurance policies can differ on what is and what isn’t included, so again it is important to check your insurance policy to find out the details of coverage.

Is this different for an unattended death?

The same situation with your insurance applies for a clean up following an unattended death.

Basically, an unattended death is where somebody passes away and the body is not found for days, months or even years. An unattended death may also be as a result of suicide or a crime.

What is a crime scene clean up?

Whatever the circumstances surrounding a crime scene clean up, it is an incredibly distressing situation and something which relatives or friends of a deceased person will probably not wish to undertake themselves. This is where the professionals can help. They can take on the burden of cleaning up following a crime and they will also have the skills to deal with the situation as sympathetically and compassionately as possible.

How long will it take for a crime scene clean-up?

When a crime scene death occurs there are a number of things that will be taken into account, so the time it takes will vary. It could take one hour, it could take two days. One thing is paramount and that is safety. There may be dangers from bloodborne pathogens and any bodily fluids that remain after the crime could cause illnesses. Then there could be vermin and insect life on the site that might need to be removed safely.  It is clear that ensuring everything is made scrupulously clean is paramount.

A professional crime scene clean up will involve the right kind of cleaning fluid and equipment and the specialist will be aware that everywhere needs to be attended to. Not only does blood and bodily fluids need to be thoroughly cleansed from walls and floors, but from rugs, carpeting, pictures, appliances, ceilings, lighting, ornaments and upholstery. Key to removing bio waste is attention to detail, which is something that the experienced trauma cleaner will be aware of. They’ll also be able to dispose of potentially harmful and infectious materials in the proper way.

How are crime scene clean-ups arranged?

First thing you need to know is that crime scene cleaning cannot commence until the scene has been signed off by the police. Then you need to contact your cleaning professionals such as Direct Cleaning Group who will deal with your request with care and compassion. For more information, please contact us.

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