Paying for a Crime Scene Cleanup: Police, Insurance or You?
When a violent crime occurs, the aftermath often leaves a scene that requires professional cleaning to remove hazardous materials like bodily fluids. However, there’s an important question that’s likely running through your mind—who bears the financial responsibility for the cleanup? If you’re wondering whether the police, insurance company or you have to pay for the crime scene cleanup, here’s what you need to know.
Who Pays for Crime Scene Cleanup?
The Role of the Police Department
Typically, the police department is responsible for the crime scene investigation but not for the cleanup of blood, biological matter, and other harmful chemicals. Once they complete their investigation and release the scene, the responsibility of cleanup falls to the property owner.
Insurance Coverage for Cleanup Services
Insurance policies often cover crime scene cleanup costs, especially when it involves a violent crime or unattended death. Many policies include coverage for the cleanup of bodily fluids and other biohazards as part of their standard homeowner’s insurance, making it essential to properly clean the affected area through professional services. Property owners should contact their insurance provider to discuss the specifics of their policy regarding biohazard removal.
Personal Responsibility for Crime Scene Cleanup
In instances where insurance does not cover the cleanup or there is no insurance, the financial responsibility falls directly on the property owner. This can be a significant burden, especially after the traumatic events of a crime.
It’s important for homeowners to understand the risks associated with crime scene cleanup, including exposure to bloodborne pathogens and hazardous materials and the need for personal protective equipment and proper disposal methods. Due to these dangers and complications, getting in touch with professionals is often the best avenue to take.
The Importance of Professional Cleanup Services
Reaching out to cleanup professionals ensures that the scene cleanup is conducted thoroughly and safely. Their teams are trained in handling all types of biohazard scenarios, from violent crimes involving blood and brain matter to situations with decomposed bodies where biological matter has affected multiple layers of the property. Using specialized tools and chemicals like hydrogen peroxide, they remove all traces of contamination from the top layer of surfaces, ensuring the area is safe for habitation.
How to Choose the Right Crime Scene Cleanup Company
Choosing the right company for biohazard removal is important. You should look for certified professionals with experience in handling all types of hazardous materials found at crime scenes. Also, make sure that the company uses the correct protocols and substances to effectively clean areas contaminated with bloodborne pathogens and other biological matter.
Navigating Payment for Crime Scene Cleanup in New Jersey and Pennsylvania
At Trauma Scene Cleaners, we offer comprehensive crime scene cleanup and other related services to ensure that no matter the situation. In addition to crime scene remediation, we provide specialized biohazard cleanup services and biohazard waste disposal to safely handle and dispose of hazardous materials, further protecting the health and safety of our clients. If you are in New Jersey or Pennsylvania and are facing the aftermath of a crime, contact us to discuss how we can assist you during this difficult time.
