Infectious Disease Cleanup in Residential Properties

Infectious disease cleanup applies when someone in your home has been ill and left behind blood, vomit, feces, or other body fluids. It also covers situations where a person with a contagious illness has touched surfaces, leaving germs behind. This type of cleanup requires more than household disinfectants.

The goal is to remove the organic material first, then disinfect the area thoroughly. You cannot just wipe a surface and expect it to be safe. The pros use hospital-grade disinfectants and follow specific protocols to reduce the risk of spreading illness.

If you discover infectious materials in your home, keep everyone away from the area. Open windows if possible to increase ventilation, but do not touch anything. Wash your hands thoroughly if you have had any contact, and see a doctor if you feel unwell.

Contact local water damage pros to handle the cleanup. While you wait, do not attempt to clean or remove any items. Your priority is to protect yourself and others from exposure until the pros can take over.

Keep children and pets out of the affected area.

Do not eat, drink, or touch your face near the area.

Remove any clothing that may have been contaminated and wash it separately.

Write down what you touched so you can inform the pros.

You should call for professional help as soon as you notice infectious materials. Do not wait to see if the situation resolves on its own. The longer the material sits, the greater the risk of spreading germs.

The pros have the right equipment and knowledge to handle the situation safely. They will assess the affected area, determine the extent of contamination, and perform a thorough cleanup. Your insurance company may cover some costs, but policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.