How Long Does It Take To Complete Hoarding Cleaning?
Hoarding cleaning is not just a simple cleaning and decluttering. It’s a complex process, and the time required can vary widely from case to case. No two hoards are the same, and several factors play a role in determining how long it takes to complete the cleanup. In this blog, we’ll break down the key considerations and steps involved in hoarding cleanup, as well as provide insight into expected timelines.
What factors affect the timeline for hoarding cleaning jobs?
The time it takes to complete a hoarding cleanup job depends on several factors, including:
- Size of the Home: A larger home with multiple rooms naturally takes more time to clean than a smaller space.
- Severity of the Hoard: The extent of clutter, from mild disorganization to extreme accumulation, heavily impacts cleanup duration.
- Type of Items Being Hoarded: Cleaning up papers, clothes, or non-hazardous items is generally faster than dealing with perishables, biohazards, or heavy items.
- Willingness of the Hoarder to Participate: The level of cooperation from the individual can either streamline or slow down the process. Decision-making takes time, especially when parting with sentimental items.
- Level of Professional Support: Hiring an experienced cleanup crew will often speed up the process compared to tackling it alone.
Hoarding Cleanup by Severity Level - Mild, Moderate, to Severe
Mild Hoarding
A mild hoard may include minor clutter that disrupts organization and flow but leaves most living spaces accessible. Cleanup could take a day or two with a small team.
Moderate Hoarding
Moderate cases involve significant clutter, with several rooms being affected and potential safety hazards present. These cases can take anywhere from a few days to a week or more to address.
Severe Hoarding
Severe cases often involve extensive accumulation, biohazards, pest infestations, or structural damage. Cleanups in these scenarios can span weeks or even months, depending on the circumstances.
Steps Involved in the Hoarding Cleanup Process
- Assessment: Professionals conduct a walkthrough to evaluate the severity of the hoard and create a tailored cleanup plan.
- Sorting and Decluttering: Belongings are categorized into items to keep, donate, recycle, or discard, with input from the hoarder.
- Cleaning and Sanitization: Spaces are deep-cleaned and sanitized after items are removed.
- Repairs (if needed): Addressing structural issues, pest control, or other damage caused by the hoard.
Hoarding is a complex condition that requires understanding, empathy, and the right support to address. In Canada, the unique challenges related to cultural diversity, climate, space constraints, and healthcare accessibility mean that hoarding situations may require specialized care. Professional hoarding cleanup services are an invaluable resource for individuals and families struggling with hoarding, offering not only cleanup but emotional support and ongoing assistance for lasting change.
Hoarding Cleanup by Severity Level - Mild, Moderate, to Severe
Enlist Professional Help
Experts have the tools and experience to work efficiently and safely.
Establish Clear Goals
Setting realistic daily or weekly goals helps maintain momentum.
Encourage Decision-Making
Providing emotional support to the hoarder can help reduce hesitation and move the process along.
Use a Team Approach
Tackling multiple areas simultaneously with a well-organized team can cut down on time
When to Expect Completion of a Hoarding Cleanup
The completion time for a hoarding cleanup depends entirely on the unique situation. For smaller, mild hoards, it could take as little as one to three days. More severe cases, especially those requiring specialized handling of hazardous materials, could take weeks or months. The most important thing is to approach the process with patience and compassion.
We at 1st Hoarding Cleanup strive to provide a swift and thorough hoarding cleaning process for all Canadians living in the Metro Vancouver Area. Nobody deserves to live in a hoarding situation and will be treated with the upmost respect and compassion by our expert team!
Don’t let hoarding control your life. Contact us today to learn more about our professional hoarding cleanup services and take the first step towards a safer, healthier, and clutter-free future.
