Biohazard disasters can be some of the most devastating, and the cleanup required takes extra care and specialty in order to keep everyone safe. Knowing what situations are considered biohazards and what steps you’ll need to take is essential.
Whether it’s a crime scene, a sewage backup, or something you’re not even sure how to describe, we’re here to help break it down.
At West Coast Fire & Water, we’ve been helping folks with biohazard cleanup in Lake County and beyond for over a decade, and we’ve seen just about everything. So, we pulled together this easy-to-read FAQ to answer your most common questions.
What’s Considered a Biohazard?
A biohazard is anything biological that can make people sick. That might be blood, bodily fluids, feces, chemicals, and mold. In a general sense, if it’s gross and potentially harmful to humans, it likely qualifies as a biohazard. These situations aren’t just messy; they can be very dangerous if not handled properly.
Examples of Biohazards
- Blood and bodily fluids (like from accidents or injuries)
- Human or animal waste
- Mold growth
- Drug paraphernalia (like needles or residue from meth labs)
- Sewage backups
- Decomposition after an unattended death
When Do I Need to Call for Biohazard Cleanup?
If you’re wondering whether you need professional help, you probably do. Here’s when to stop what you’re doing and give the pros a call:
💔 After a Death
These are some of the toughest situations emotionally. Decomposition can begin within hours, leading to serious health concerns and property damage.
🚓 After a Crime Scene
Even once the police leave, biohazards like blood or fingerprint dust can linger. It’s not something you want to handle yourself.
💩 Sewage Backups
Raw sewage (aka “blackwater”) can be full of harmful bacteria and viruses. It’s also incredibly destructive if not dealt with quickly.
🧹 Hoarding or Extreme Filth
These cases often involve old food, mold, animal droppings or carcasses, and other hazards. Cleaning them up safely takes serious gear and experience.
🧪 Drug-Related Residues
Whether it’s the remnants of a drug lab or leftover paraphernalia like needles, drug sites are major biohazard zones and need trained professionals to clean and decontaminate the space.
Why Can’t I Clean Biohazards Myself?
Maybe you’re trying to be frugal or just can’t stand the thought of waiting any longer to get rid of the issue. Regardless of why, it doesn’t change the fact that biohazards have the potential to be extremely dangerous. From pathogens like hepatitis or HIV to the inability of household cleaning products to fully disinfect and purify, having a professional team on your side is necessary.
It’s not just about cleaning but making sure the area is safe again.
How Long Does Biohazard Cleanup Take?
A minor cleanup may only take a few hours. Bigger scenes, like hoarding cases or multiple-room contamination, can take a couple of days. No matter the job, our goal is to be in and out efficiently while doing a thorough, respectful cleanup.
Does Insurance Usually Cover Biohazards?
Surprisingly, yes, in many cases. Depending on your policy, cleanup is often covered if it’s related to:
- Crime scenes
- Unattended deaths
- Vandalism
- Mold or sewage issues
We’ll help you work through the claims process, so you don’t have to figure it out alone. We’ve done this hundreds of times and know exactly what documentation insurers need.
What should I do while waiting for help?
First, breathe. It’s important to try and remain calm, especially if the biohazard has been caused by something traumatic. Then do this:
- ✅ Keep everyone out of the area (especially pets and kids)
- ✅ Open windows if it’s safe to ventilate
- ❌ Don’t touch anything
- 📞 Call us. That’s what we’re here for.
Why Call West Coast Fire & Water?
We’re not just another cleanup crew. We’re a local, family-owned business that’s helped folks through floods, fires, and more for over a decade.
Here’s what makes us different:
- Available 24/7, no waiting until morning
- We treat every job with compassion and discretion
- We offer full restoration, not just cleanup
- We even show up in unmarked vehicles if you want privacy
From the first phone call to the final walkthrough, we’ve got your back.
Biohazard Cleanup Takes More Than a Mop
Biohazard cleanup is more than scrubbing a surface. It’s about protecting people, property, and peace of mind.
If you need biohazard cleanup in Lake County, West Coast Fire & Water is just a call away. We’ve got the experience to help you through it.
Need help now?
📞 Call us 24/7 at 888-617-3786
💬 Or contact us online now
