Hoarding disorder can turn a once-livable home into a hazardous environment, with extreme clutter leading to unsanitary and unsafe conditions. For landlords, family members, or those trying to assist, understanding these dangers and the steps needed for effective cleanup can make a significant difference. Below, we’ll cover what defines unsanitary living conditions, why they’re hazardous, and how to safely approach hoarding cleanup with compassion and care.

What Constitutes Unsanitary Conditions? 

The term "unsanitary" often brings to mind cluttered or dirty spaces, but severe hoarding goes beyond typical messes. Unsanitary living conditions are legally defined and may vary by state, but generally include:

  • Excessive Dirt or Filth: Layers of dirt, dust, and grime covering most surfaces.
  • Insect and Rodent Infestations: These pests often invade hoarded spaces, leading to droppings, nests, and potential disease exposure.
  • Animal or Human Waste Buildup: Homes with hoarding can contain piles of waste that increase contamination risks.
  • Blocked Utilities and Appliances: Non-functional water, gas, or electricity services, or obstructed appliances like stoves and toilets, which further complicate the space.

Severe hoarding cases can create environments that meet multiple criteria for being deemed unsafe and uninhabitable. For instance, hoarded items can obstruct exits, block pathways, and increase the risk of falls or injury, turning the home into a space that’s challenging, if not dangerous, to navigate. In some cases, hoarded properties also face structural issues from excess weight and moisture, compounding risks and potential damage.

Health Hazards Associated with Hoarding

  • Fire Risk: Flammable materials in large quantities increase the likelihood of fires, especially when they obstruct safe exits. 
  • Increased Risk of Respiratory Issues: Dust, mold, and decaying materials exacerbate respiratory problems and can lead to conditions like asthma or chronic bronchitis.
  • Spread of Diseases from Pests: Rodents, insects, and other pests often make their homes in hoarded spaces, increasing the risk of disease transmission.
  • Compromised Mobility: In many cases, the volume of items impedes mobility, raising the risk of falls and injuries, especially among the elderly or those with mobility impairments. These conditions not only impact physical health but also have lasting emotional and psychological effects, often worsening feelings of isolation, anxiety, and stress.

Steps for Addressing Hoarding Cleanup Safely

  1. Conduct an Initial Assessment: Take a walkthrough of the home to evaluate the extent of clutter, visible hazards, and any pest issues. This step will help in prioritizing areas that need immediate attention and may guide you in deciding whether to involve professional hoarding cleanup services.
  2. Wear Appropriate Protective Gear: In unsanitary environments, always wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), including gloves, masks, and eye protection, to avoid direct exposure to harmful substances, bacteria, or mold.
  3. Dispose of Garbage and Hazardous Items First: Begin by removing obvious trash, such as spoiled food, waste, and contaminated materials. Ensure items are disposed of properly, following local waste disposal regulations, as unsanitary waste can attract pests and create additional health risks.
  4. Clean and Sanitize Thoroughly: Once excess clutter and waste are removed, surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected with EPA-approved solutions to eliminate bacteria, mold spores, and other contaminants.
  5. Evaluate Structural Integrity and Make Repairs: If hoarding has caused structural damage—such as to floors, walls, or foundational elements—consider hiring professionals to inspect and repair. This step is essential for restoring the home’s safety and habitability.

How to Support a Loved One with Hoarding Behavior

Supporting someone with hoarding disorder can be challenging. Hoarding behaviors are often tied to emotional or psychological issues, making compassion and patience critical for success. Here’s how to help a loved one through the process:

  1. Foster Open Communication: Discuss the cleanup process gently, without judgment, and listen to their concerns. Hoarding often arises from emotional distress, so understanding their point of view can help build trust.
  2. Involve Mental Health Support: Hoarding disorder is recognized as a mental health condition. Working with a therapist or counselor who specializes in hoarding can provide the individual with coping mechanisms and support to manage the underlying issues.
  3. Set Small, Manageable Goals: Cleanup can feel overwhelming, especially to someone with a hoarding disorder. Rather than focusing on the entire home, break it down into smaller tasks. This approach can help the person feel more in control and motivated to continue.
  4. Encourage Professional Help: Hoarding cleanup companies like ServiceMaster BioClean offer both expertise and compassion in handling hazardous conditions. Professional services ensure a thorough, safe cleanup while allowing family members to focus on emotional support.
  5. Celebrate Progress: Recognize and celebrate each accomplishment, no matter how small. This positive reinforcement can be empowering and encourage ongoing efforts to maintain a clean and safe space.

Professional Hoarding Cleanup Services: When to Call for Help

Due to the complexities and hazards of severe hoarding, partnering with a professional cleanup service is often the safest choice. Trained biohazard cleanup technicians, like those at ServiceMaster BioClean, bring specialized equipment and knowledge to handle unsanitary conditions with precision and care.