DIY Biohazard Cleanup Gone Wrong: 7 Risks to Your Health and Home, The Aftermath of Unattended Death Case In Fort Wayne, Indianapolis

Biohazard Clean Up

Introduction

The sudden loss of life is tragic enough—but when death goes unnoticed for days or weeks, it creates a crisis far beyond grief. Unattended deaths leave behind more than sadness. They often result in severe biohazard risks, emotional trauma, structural damage to the property, and legal complexities that homeowners must navigate carefully.

If you’re a homeowner or landlord dealing with the aftermath of an unattended death, understanding what follows is crucial for your safety, mental well-being, and legal protection. This guide outlines what you need to know, what to do, and who to call.

The Silence Upstairs: The Anna’s Story

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Anna, a retired nurse in her 60s, had rented out her upstairs unit to a quiet middle-aged tenant named Mr. Dalton. He was private but always paid on time. One day, Anna noticed the mail piling up and an unusual odor wafting through the vents. After a wellness check by the police, the unimaginable was confirmed: Mr. Dalton had passed away in his apartment nearly two weeks earlier.

Anna was devastated. But the emotional blow was only the beginning. The police left, and Anna was left with questions. What happens to the apartment now? How do you clean this? Is it even safe?

She tried to scrub the floors herself, but the odor persisted. When her son came to help, he noticed flies around the air vents. A neighbor called the health department. The situation was quickly spiraling into a hazard. That’s when she called a professional biohazard restoration company.

Anna’s story reflects the hidden crisis behind unattended deaths the trauma, the health risks, the financial burden, and the lack of clear guidance. Here’s what every homeowner needs to know if they ever face this heart-breaking situation.

What Is an Unattended Death?

An unattended death occurs when a person dies alone and their body remains undiscovered for an extended period often days, weeks, or even longer. This can happen due to age, isolation, illness, or accidents. In rental properties, it may go unnoticed until a foul odor is detected or the tenant fails to respond to communication.

Why Unattended Deaths Are Hazardous

Unattended deaths result in biohazard contamination due to decomposition. Within hours of death, the human body begins to break down, releasing fluids and gases that are not only unpleasant but dangerous.

Key hazards include:

  • Bacterial pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella
  • Bloodborne pathogens like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV
  • Insect infestations (flies, maggots, roaches)
  • Structural damage from bodily fluids seeping into floors and walls

Attempting to clean this without proper training and equipment can expose you to serious health risks.

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For Homeowners and Landlords:

  • Report to authorities: If not already done, notify the police immediately.
  • Secure the property: Ensure the area is sealed off to avoid further contamination.
  • Insurance claim: Contact your homeowner’s or landlord’s insurance to report the incident. Many policies cover biohazard cleanup under “accidental death” or “trauma scene” clauses.
  • Notification of next of kin
  • Autopsy or coroner reports
  • Property inspections or condemnation if cleanup is not done properly

Important: Failure to address the scene properly could result in lawsuits from future tenants or home buyers due to unsafe conditions or non-disclosure.

Professional Biohazard Cleanup: Why You Should Never DIY

Dealing with the aftermath is not a job for traditional cleaning methods. Professional cleanup crews follow strict OSHA and EPA guidelines for:

  • Biohazard waste disposal
  • Odor neutralization
  • Deep sanitation
  • Air purification
  • Structural decontamination

They also wear protective suits, respirators, and use hospital-grade disinfectants.

Choosing the Right Cleanup Company

Look for a provider that:

  • Is certified in trauma and biohazard remediation
  • Offers 24/7 emergency response
  • Works with your insurance provider
  • Provides documentation for legal or resale purposes

For immediate assistance with Bio-hazard Clean up, contact PuroClean Disaster Restoration ow West Fort Wayne, Call (+1) 260-263-9788 for Fort Wayne location.
PuroClean Disaster Restoration has over 19 years of experience in the biohazard cleanup industry, with over 100 5 Star reviews on Google serving Indianapolis. Click on this link to see it’s online reviews and ratings.

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Emotional and Psychological Impact

Anna didn’t expect that even weeks after the cleanup, she couldn’t walk past that unit without holding her breath—not because of odor, but memory. Many homeowners experience anxiety, guilt, PTSD symptoms, or even depression after discovering an unattended death in their property.

Steps to Emotional Recovery:

  • Seek support from family or community
  • Consider grief counseling or trauma therapy
  • Talk with other property owners who’ve experienced similar events
  • Allow yourself to take time before reentering or renting the space again

Financial Implications

Typical costs of unattended death cleanup:

  • $1,500 to $10,000 depending on severity, size of the scene, and length of time before discovery
  • Insurance may cover up to 100% if properly documented
  • Failure to clean properly may reduce home value or violate state tenant safety laws

Preventative Measures

While not all unattended deaths are preventable, especially among elderly or isolated individuals, some proactive steps can help:

  • Regular wellness checks for elderly tenants or family members
  • Install motion or door sensors
  • Encourage social interaction in senior communities
  • Use emergency alert systems

Key Takeaways

  • Unattended deaths are not just tragic—they create serious health and legal challenges.
  • Never attempt to clean the scene yourself—call certified biohazard cleanup professionals.
  • Take care of your mental health—the trauma is real.
  • Contact your insurance to file a proper claim.
  • Be aware of your legal responsibilities as a homeowner or landlord.

Anna learned the hard way that trauma isn’t just emotional—it can seep into your walls, your air, and your peace of mind. But with the right support, cleanup, and care, you can recover and restore your home.

Common FAQs on Unattended Death Biohazard Cleanup

1. What is the first thing to do after discovering an unattended death?

Call 911 or local law enforcement immediately. Do not touch anything or attempt cleanup. Authorities must investigate and officially document the death.

2. Can I clean up an unattended death myself?

No. Cleaning after decomposition exposes you to bloodborne pathogens, bacteria, and toxic gases. It requires protective gear, specialized equipment, and certified disposal methods. Always hire a professional biohazard cleaning service.

3. Will insurance cover the cleanup costs?

In many cases, yes. Most homeowner’s insurance or landlord policies include provisions for biohazard cleanup due to accidental death or trauma. Contact your provider as soon as possible and keep all documentation for claims.

4. How long does it take to clean the scene of an unattended death?

Cleanup can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on:

  • Time elapsed since death
  • Size and layout of the property
  • Structural damage or deep contamination

Professionals also run air purifiers and test surfaces to ensure the space is safe post-cleanup.

5. How do professionals eliminate the odor after an unattended death?

They use industrial ozone machines, air scrubbers, and enzyme-based cleaners that break down organic compounds at a molecular level. Standard air fresheners or bleach won’t remove the odor—only mask it.

6. What if the death happened in a rental property?

As a landlord, you’re responsible for ensuring the unit is restored to a habitable condition. Work with the family of the deceased, your insurance provider, and a professional cleanup company. Document all steps for legal and tenant protection.

Laws vary by state and country. In many U.S. states, you’re only required to disclose violent or suspicious deaths, not natural or unattended ones. However, ethical real estate agents often recommend transparency to avoid future disputes.

8. How can I emotionally cope with this situation?

It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. This is a traumatic event. Don’t hesitate to seek professional counseling, especially if you’re experiencing insomnia, anxiety, or avoidance of the space. Talking helps.

9. What companies offer unattended death cleanup services?

  • PuroClean
  • Aftermath Services
  • Bio-One
  • Steri-Clean

Many local biohazard specialists also provide excellent service. Look for licensed, insured providers with biohazard and trauma certification.

10. Can I rent or sell the property afterward?

Yes, once properly cleaned and sanitized, the property is safe to inhabit. Keep detailed records of the remediation process to show potential renters or buyers, and consult your local laws on disclosure.

Final Thoughts

An unattended death is heartbreaking, but it doesn’t have to destroy the safety or value of your home. With quick action, the right professionals, and compassion—for yourself and others—you can face the aftermath and restore what was lost.

If you’re unsure where to start, contact a certified biohazard cleanup company immediately, and lean on your support network. You’re not alone, even in the silence that follows.

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