After a homicide, assault or break-in
Crime scene cleanup in Athens
Once the police have finished, the space still needs trained cleaning. This is often called trauma cleanup. An independent company can take it on so the family or owner does not have to.
Phone answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
In order
Wait for the release
Athens-Clarke County Police, or the agency that responded, decides when the scene is released. The non-emergency number is 706-613-3345.
Ask for the report number
Your insurer and the victim compensation program will both ask for it.
Take photos if you can bear to
Of the rooms and of anything damaged, before any work starts. If not, ask the company to.
Call when you are ready
The company visits, explains what has to go and what can be cleaned, and gives a written estimate.
Check before moving back
Ask how the company confirms the area is clean, and keep the paperwork it gives you.
What the work covers
Anything blood has reached is either cleaned and disinfected or cut out and removed as biohazardous waste. In older houses with wood floors and plaster walls, fluids can travel under carpet and into gaps between boards, so ask how the company checks below the surface.
Fingerprint powder and other marks left by investigators can also be cleaned.
Other situations
- Unattended death cleanupWhen someone died at home and was not found for some time.Read more
- Suicide cleanupQuiet, careful cleanup so the family does not have to face the room.Read more
- Blood and bodily fluid cleanupInjuries, accidents and medical events at home or at work.Read more
- Hoarding cleanupA packed home with animal or human waste, spoiled food or other biohazards.Read more
- Infection and disinfectionCleaning and disinfecting a space after illness, using registered products.Read more
- Vehicle cleanupBlood or bodily fluids in a car, truck or van.Read more
When you are ready
One call, no pressure
You can call before you have decided anything. Ask what the work involves, how long it may take and what the company needs from you.
Talk it through first
Say what happened and where, and whether the police or the coroner have finished. The company will explain what it would do and what affects the cost. Nothing is agreed until you say yes.
Call (706) 555-0104Phone answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Calls may be recorded. Read the referral disclosure and the privacy policy.