Clearing out a deceased loved one’s home is already an emotionally challenging task, but when hoarding or excessive clutter is added to the mix, the process becomes increasingly more complex.
Navigating the Challenge
Hoarding disorder affects millions of people worldwide, and its impact often becomes most apparent when family members must clean up after their passing. Unlike regular estate cleanups, hoarding situations require special consideration, careful planning, and often professional intervention.
Where to Begin?
Take a Step Back
Before diving in, take time to assess the situation. Document the condition of the property with photos and videos, as this may be necessary for insurance or legal purposes. Create a rough inventory of valuable items that need to be retained.
Safety First
- Wear appropriate protective gear (masks, gloves, steel cap boots)
- Check for structural issues
- Be aware of potential health or physical hazards (mould, pest infestations, clutter in the way)
- Ensure proper ventilation
Creating a Strategic Plan
1. Set a Realistic Timeframe
Don’t expect to complete everything in a weekend. Hoarding cleanups often take weeks or months. Break the project into manageable segments to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
2. Organise Your Approach
- Start with one room at a time
- Create separate zones for different categories (keep, donate, dispose)
- Maintain clear pathways for safety
- Focus on high-traffic areas first
Sorting and Decision-Making
Categorise Belongings
- Items of genuine value (jewelry, important documents, family heirlooms)
- Items to donate
- Recyclables
- Disposal
- Hazardous materials (requiring special disposal)
Important Documents
- Keep all legal papers
- Preserve financial records
- Maintain insurance documents
- Save tax returns
Decision-Making Guidelines
Ask yourself the following questions if you are unsure in which category an item should be grouped.
- Is it valuable?
- Does it have significant sentimental value?
- Is it in usable condition?
- Would someone else benefit from it?
Valuable Items
- Document all valuable findings
- Consult with estate attorney if necessary
- Keep records of disposal/donation
- Follow local regulations for disposal
Getting Support
Involve the Family
It’s essential to divide responsibilities among family members so the emotional toll does not weigh on one person. Make sure to set regular breaks, support each other emotionally and make major decisions as a group.
Get Professional Help
Cleaning up a hoarded deceased estate is a challenging journey that requires patience, planning, and sensitivity. Remember, you don’t have to face this challenge alone, seek help when needed. Kleen Slate Services ensures complete clean up of a property with our trained and accredited clean up services. Our experienced team has the necessary equipment to clean up deceased estates professionally in a sensitive, discreet way.
