Insurance, landlords, estates and the state
Who pays for biohazard cleanup?
There is usually someone other than you who may pay for some or all of it. Here is where to ask, in the order most families try.
Where the money can come from
Homeowner or renter insurance
Many policies cover some sudden damage to a home. Whether biohazard cleanup counts depends on your policy. Call the insurer, explain what happened, and ask what they cover and what they need from you.
The landlord's insurance
If the death or injury happened in a rented home, the building itself is the owner's. Their policy may be the one to ask.
Auto insurance
For a vehicle, ask about comprehensive coverage.
The estate
When the person who died owned the home, the cost is often paid from their estate. Keep the invoice for whoever handles it.
New Hampshire Victims' Compensation Program
Helps victims of crimes in New Hampshire and their immediate family. Its published list covers funerals after a homicide, counseling, lost wages, new locks and more, but does not name crime scene cleanup. It pays only what insurance and other sources do not. Apply within two years of the crime, after reporting it to police.
Official pageBefore you call the insurer
- Have the police report number.
- Take photos, or ask the cleanup company to.
- Ask what they need: photos, an itemised invoice, a list of what was removed.
- Write down who you spoke to and when.
If it happened today
- Call 911 first. If someone is hurt, or you have found someone who has died, call 911 before anything else.
- Leave the room as it is. Police and the medical examiner's investigator may need to see it. Close the door and keep people and pets out.
- Wait for the release. Cleanup starts only after the police, and the medical examiner if involved, say the home or car is released.
- Then call. Call (603) 555-0105 when you are ready. Nobody will rush you.
When you are ready, call
An independent cleanup company that works in the Manchester area. You decide whether to hire them.