Inherited Hoarder Home – How Can SERVPRO Help?

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

Inherited Hoarder Home – How Can SERVPRO Help?

There have been numerous instances where a realtor or new recipient of an inherited property that needs help with the massive accumulation of contents inside the dwelling, calls to inquire if SERVPRO can help. The answer to these inquiries is a resounding - “yes.”  SERVPRO provides debris removal, pack out services, cleaning and restoration services.  There are unique issues and concerns that make dealing with a hoarder situation a specialty service such as safety, biohazards, molds, pests and malodors. 

Safety is the first priority in dealing with any hoarder situation.  During the initial assessment all safety measures are addressed to keep SERVPRO technicians safe and to assure that once work is complete the property will be safe of the perils we are contracted to address. 

Biohazards are common in hoarder situations due to unsanitary conditions caused due to trash accumulation, human and pet fecal matter, and pest infestations.  Deceased animal carcasses are sometimes found in hoarder homes.

Mold is also common in hoarder homes due to unaddressed water intrusions, and high humidity due blocked ventilation because of the accumulation of items preventing air flow and proper dehumidification.

With the large accumulation of contents coupled with unaddressed home maintenance and unsanitary conditions make the home attractive to pests such as bugs and rodents.  SERVPRO is not in the pest control business, but we are happy to refer a qualified pest control specialist or hire a company ourselves and include their services in our estimate. 

Finally, malodors will be addressed so the property can smell fresh once the other issues have been addressed.

SERVPRO of South Durham and Orange County is the company to call in the North Carolina Triangle if you inherit a property that has hoarder issues which must be addressed prior to being able to be safely occupied or sold.  Call us at 919-596-1242.