Spokane, Washington
Crime scene cleanup in Spokane
After police have finished, the place still has to be made safe to live in again. An independent cleanup company can take that on, so that family members and neighbors do not have to.
Answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
When the cleaning can start
Police control the scene for as long as they need it. Do not move or wash anything until they say the home or vehicle has been released. If you are not sure, ask the investigating officer.
For anything that is not an emergency, Spokane’s Crime Check line, (509) 456-2233, takes reports and questions.
Once the scene is released, it becomes the owner’s responsibility. That is usually the moment people call.
What the cleanup usually covers
- Finding contamination beyond what is visible, under flooring and behind baseboards
- Removing carpet, pad, drywall or furniture that cannot be cleaned
- Sealing waste in marked containers and arranging disposal
- Cleaning and disinfecting hard surfaces
- Treating lingering odor
- Photos and a written description for an insurer or landlord
Questions
Common questions
Will police clean up?
No. Police and the Medical Examiner collect evidence and remove the person. Cleaning is left to the owner, who usually hires a company.
Is it safe to go back inside?
You can usually walk through rooms that were not involved. Stay out of the affected room until it has been cleaned, and keep children and pets away.
Can the company work in an apartment building?
Yes. Tell them about shared walls, hallways and the building manager so they can plan containment and access.
Whenever you are ready
You do not have to sort this out alone
Some families call the same evening. Others call after the service, or after talking with the landlord. Until then, keep the door to the room shut and leave the cleaning to people with the right protective gear.
Speak with a cleanup company
The call goes to an independent company that works in your ZIP code. Describe the room, ask how they would handle it and how they set the price. Nothing is agreed until you say so.
Call (509) 206-8076Answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Calls may be recorded. Read the referral disclosure and the privacy policy.