Dealing with the loss of a loved one is difficult enough. But when that person was a hoarder, the task of cleaning up their house can feel overwhelming. Hoarder homes are often filled with excessive contents, junk, and potential hazards that make the cleanup process physically, emotionally, and financially exhausting.

At R&H Distressed Properties, we’ve helped families across California navigate this difficult task. Whether you’re dealing with structural damage, health risks, or emotional challenges, you’re not alone—and there is a clear way forward.

Understanding the Hoarding Situation

Hoarding disorder is a complex mental health condition that makes it extremely difficult for individuals to part with their possessions. It’s not just about clutter—it’s about emotional attachment, anxiety, and a deep fear of needing something later.

As a result, hoarder homes often contain unsafe levels of junk, blocked pathways, unsanitary conditions, and even fire hazards. The severity, contents, and condition of the property all influence the approach needed for cleanup.

Step-by-Step Cleanup Process After a Hoarder Passes

1. Evaluate the Property

Walk through the home to assess the level of hoarding, damage, and potential health risks. Look for structural issues, blocked exits, signs of pests, and hazardous materials. Understanding the size and condition of the house will help you estimate the total cost and time required for the cleaning process.

2. Make a Plan

Break the job into manageable steps. Depending on the severity, hiring professional hoarding cleanup services may be the best option. These services are trained to handle hazardous materials, heavy clutter, and emotional support needs.

List the supplies you’ll need, such as gloves, masks, trash bags, boxes, and disinfectants. Prioritize rooms with the highest risk or importance. Create a safe and clear path through the home before tackling more difficult areas.

3. Begin Sorting and Removal

Start sorting through the clutter. Use categories like keep, donate, sell, and discard. Keep sentimental and valuable items. Donate items in good condition. Remove broken, expired, or hazardous materials.

This is often the most emotional part of the process. Be patient, and consider bringing in professional cleaners who specialize in hoarder house cleanouts. Junk removal companies can also assist with hauling large items and disposing of them properly.

4. Deep Cleaning and Sanitizing

Once the clutter is gone, the real cleaning begins. You may face mold, pests, water damage, and more. Address health hazards first—mold, biohazards, and pests all require specialized cleaning services and may increase the overall cost.

Deep cleaning includes scrubbing floors, walls, ceilings, appliances, and HVAC systems. You may need pest control, mold remediation, and structural repairs. DIY cleaning is possible, but for many hoarder homes, the risks and time involved make professional services more practical.

5. Handle Hazardous Materials Carefully

Expired food, human waste, animal remains, chemicals, and broken glass are common in hoarder homes. These pose serious safety concerns and need proper disposal. Disposal fees and safety gear may add to the expenses, but handling these materials properly is essential for your health.

What Does It Cost to Clean a Hoarder House?

The average cost to clean out a hoarder house varies widely based on several factors, including:

• Size of the home and number of rooms
• Level of hoarding and clutter
• Type and volume of junk and materials
• Structural damage and sanitation needs
• Hazardous materials and biohazard cleanup
• Time and labor required
• Need for specialized services

Basic cleanouts may cost $3,000 to $5,000, while severe hoarder house cleanups can range from $10,000 to $25,000 or more. Some insurance policies may cover part of the cleanup process if damage is extensive. Always check what your policy includes.

Why Consider Professional Cleaning Services

Professional hoarding cleanup crews are trained to handle high-risk environments with safety and efficiency. They can:

• Reduce the time and stress of the process
• Provide proper disposal and junk removal
• Use protective gear and follow safety protocols
• Handle biohazards and pests
• Offer support for families overwhelmed by the task

Many companies offer hoarder house cleanup services that are discreet, compassionate, and thorough. At R&H Distressed Properties, we also offer a cash solution if you’d rather sell the home as-is without handling the cleanup yourself.

The Emotional Side of Cleaning a Hoarder’s Home

Cleaning out a hoarder home isn’t just a physical task. It’s also emotionally taxing, especially if the hoarder was a loved one. Grief, guilt, anger, and relief may all come up.

Give yourself space to feel those emotions. Seek emotional support if needed. Counseling, therapy, or local support groups can make a big difference as you work through this experience. There’s no right way to grieve—just your way.

Can Hoarding Be Prevented in the Future?

Understanding the early signs of hoarding can help prevent similar situations in the future. These signs may include difficulty discarding items, constant accumulation of stuff, or severe disorganization.

Preventive strategies include:

• Regular decluttering
• Professional organizing
• Support from therapists or social workers
• Setting limits on storage and purchases

Preventing hoarding takes patience, compassion, and support, especially when mental health is involved.

Need Help With a Hoarder House?

If you’re facing the overwhelming task of cleaning up after a hoarder dies, you’re not alone. R&H Distressed Properties can connect you with trusted cleaning companies or even buy the property as-is, no cleanup required.

Contact us to discuss your specific situation. Whether you’re looking for professional hoarding cleanup services or just need someone to listen, we’re here to help.