Guide
Who pays for biohazard cleanup
There is no single answer. It depends on where it happened, who owns the place and what policies are in force. Here is how it usually works in Washington.
Other places to ask
Homeowner’s insurance
Some policies cover cleanup after a sudden event in the home; others exclude it. Call your insurer or agent, describe what happened, and ask what they need from you before work begins.
Renter’s insurance
A renter’s policy may cover your belongings. The building itself is usually the landlord’s to deal with.
The landlord
In a rental, the owner usually arranges cleanup of the unit. See the guide for landlords.
The estate
When the person who died owned the home, cleanup is often paid from the estate. The executor or the family member in charge makes the decision.
Auto insurance
For a vehicle, comprehensive coverage sometimes applies. Ask the insurer.
Questions about a policy
The Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner answers consumer questions at 800-562-6900, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.
What makes the price go up or down
This site does not quote prices. The company sets the price after seeing the job. What moves it: how many rooms and surfaces are affected, how much material must be cut out and replaced, how long before the person was found, odor treatment, and the cost of disposing of regulated waste.
Ask for the price in writing and what it includes. If you are claiming on insurance, ask the company to photograph the room before and after.
Questions
Common questions
Will the cleanup company bill my insurer directly?
Some do. Ask them, and ask your insurer whether it allows that. This site does not handle claims.
What if nobody will pay?
Talk to the company about the scope. Sometimes the essential part, removing contaminated material, can be separated from repairs that can wait.
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
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