Before you hire, ask these questions.
A good cleanup company will answer every one of them without hesitation. Here’s what we hear from the companies we verify, and what to confirm on the phone before anyone starts work.
Insurance first
Most will bill your insurance first
Many of the companies we verify tell us during their interview that they always try to bill insurance first, so families aren’t left paying out of pocket while a claim is reviewed. Homeowner’s and renter’s policies often cover biohazard cleanup after a death or crime.
Help with the cost
Some will lower the cost, or help for free
Some of our companies tell us they work with families to reduce the cost, and in some cases provide the service for free. We believe that’s part of what makes the companies here excellent choices, but every situation is different. Always ask the company you call.
Always confirm it yourself
Our checks are a strong starting point, not a guarantee. Policies, pricing and licenses can change, so always re-confirm how a company works before you agree to anything. The questions below make that easy.
On the phone
12 questions to ask when you call
Keep this open while you call. A good company will be glad you asked.
- Will you bill my insurance directly?And what happens if the claim is denied or only partly paid?
- Will I get a written estimate before you start?Don’t sign anything you haven’t read, and don’t let anyone rush you.
- Do you ask for any payment up front?Ask exactly what you would owe, and when.
- Do you offer reduced-cost help or payment plans?Some companies do, especially for families in hardship.
- Can you help with victim compensation paperwork?If a crime happened, your state program may help pay.
- Are you licensed or registered in this state?Ask for the number. Some states register trauma scene cleanup companies.
- Do you carry liability and pollution insurance?Ask them to email you a current certificate.
- Are your technicians trained in bloodborne pathogens?OSHA requires it. Ask whether they follow the ANSI/IICRC S540 standard.
- Where does the biohazard waste go?It must go to a licensed facility. Ask for the disposal paperwork when the job is done.
- Who will actually come, and how soon?Ask whether it’s their own local crew or a subcontractor.
- How will you handle personal belongings?Tell them what matters to you before they begin.
- How will I know it’s clean and safe?Ask how they confirm the area is clean before they leave.
Common questions
Paying for cleanup
Will a cleanup company bill my insurance?
Many will. Many of the companies we verify tell us they try to bill insurance first. Homeowner’s and renter’s policies often cover biohazard cleanup after a death or crime. Always confirm with the company before work begins.
Can crime scene cleanup be free or reduced cost?
Sometimes. Some companies work with families to reduce the cost or provide the service for free, and state crime victim compensation programs may help pay after a crime. Ask the company you call what help it offers.
What should I do before letting a company start?
Get a written estimate, confirm how billing and insurance will work, and ask the questions on this page. A reputable company will wait for you to call, and won’t pressure you to sign.
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