Why Hoarded Properties arent Just a Clearance Job

Why Hoarded Properties Aren’t Just a Clearance Job

When most people think about a hoarded property, the first thing that comes to mind is “just get a skip and clear it all out.” On the surface, it might look like a simple case of shifting belongings and rubbish. However, hoarded properties are far more complex. Treating them as “just a clearance job” can create risks, stress, and even long-term damage.

At Domestic Bliss Specialist Cleaning Services, we see behind the piles. We understand that every hoarded property has a story, a person, and often hidden hazards that need careful handling.

More Than Just “Stuff”

Hoarding isn’t merely about clutter. It’s often linked to mental health issues, trauma, grief, or medical conditions. Each item may hold significant meaning, even if it appears to be “junk” to someone else. A rushed clearance can feel like a violation for the resident and may hinder their progress.

That’s why hoarding clearance requires sensitivity, patience, and understanding — not just bin bags and muscle power.

The Hidden Risks in Hoarded Properties

It’s not always obvious what’s lurking inside a hoarded property. Here are some of the risks we regularly encounter:

• Biohazards: Bodily fluids, soiled items, sharps/needles, and decaying food can all carry pathogens.

• Structural Damage: Excessive weight from hoarded items can damage floors, walls, and ceilings.

• Pests: Rats, mice, insects, and textile pests are common in hoards.

• Fire Hazards: Cluttered walkways, blocked exits, and flammable materials increase fire risk.

• Mould & Damp: Hidden piles can trap moisture, creating widespread mould issues.

  
  

A standard “clear-out” team may not be trained to deal with these risks safely or legally.

Why Specialist Cleaning Matters

Specialist cleaning goes hand-in-hand with clearance in hoarded properties. It’s not just about emptying the space — it’s about making it safe, habitable, and dignified again.

This process includes:

• Risk Assessing: We assess the risks before anyone enters.

• Using PPE: We ensure the use of personal protective equipment and safe systems of work.

• Sorting for Salvageable Items: We carefully sort through items, checking for important documents, valuables, and sentimental belongings.

• Correct Waste Transfer Notes: We provide licensed disposal and correct waste transfer notes.

• Decontamination: After clearance, we remove biohazards and odours.

  
  

In many cases, we also liaise with social workers, housing associations, or family members to ensure the process supports the person living there, not just the property itself.

When Clearance Means More Than the Property

In severe cases, hoarded properties can be unsafe for the person living there. If exits are blocked, hygiene risks are extreme, or the home is structurally compromised, it may trigger wider safeguarding concerns.

Sometimes, under Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) or other safeguarding frameworks, it’s necessary to temporarily move someone into a place of safety while their future care and accommodation are assessed.

This step is never easy and isn’t taken lightly. However, it’s crucial for ensuring the individual’s wellbeing is protected. Our role in these situations is to work closely with adult social care, housing teams, and families to support the process sensitively. We make sure the home is handled with dignity while the person receives the right level of care and support.

Understanding Hoarding and Its Impact

The Emotional Toll of Hoarding

Hoarding can have a profound emotional impact on individuals. It often stems from deeper issues that require understanding and compassion. The clutter can represent feelings of loss, anxiety, or a need for control. Recognising this emotional aspect is essential for anyone involved in the clearance process.

The Importance of Support Networks

Support networks play a vital role in helping individuals overcome hoarding tendencies. Engaging with mental health professionals, support groups, and family members can provide the necessary encouragement and guidance. It’s essential to approach the situation with empathy and a willingness to listen.

Creating a Safe Environment

After clearance, creating a safe and supportive environment is crucial. This might involve ongoing cleaning support, maintenance, or referrals to hoarding support networks. It’s about ensuring that the individual feels secure and understood in their living space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can’t I just hire a waste removal company for a hoarded property?

Waste removal companies are great for standard clearances, but they’re not trained or insured to handle biohazards, sharps, or contamination. Using the wrong team can put people at risk and may even break environmental regulations.

Will you throw everything away?

No. We carefully sort through items, checking for important documents, jewellery, money, and sentimental belongings. The aim isn’t to strip the home bare but to make it safe and manageable.

How long does it take to clear a hoarded property?

Every case is different. Some take a few days, while others may take several weeks, depending on the size of the property, the level of hoarding, and the hazards we find.

Do you work with local authorities or social care?

Yes. We are regularly called in by housing associations, adult social care teams, and scheme managers to handle complex hoarding cases safely and respectfully.

What happens if the person can’t safely stay in the property during clearance?

In some situations, the risks are too great for someone to remain in their home. If the environment is unsafe — for example, blocked fire exits, severe contamination, or structural damage — safeguarding teams may step in. Under Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) or similar frameworks, the person may need to be moved into a safe environment while their future care is considered. In these cases, we work hand-in-hand with professionals to ensure the property is dealt with respectfully while the individual receives the right support.

What happens after clearance?

Once the property is clear and decontaminated, we can recommend ongoing cleaning support, maintenance, or even refer to hoarding support networks if needed.

Final Thoughts

A hoarded property is never “just a clearance job.” It requires empathy, patience, and professional expertise to do it properly. At Domestic Bliss, we take pride in offering a safe, sensitive, and thorough service that goes beyond waste removal. Because at the heart of every hoard is a person, not just a pile.