Hoarding cleanup is a sensitive and complex process that involves more than just removing clutter. It often requires specialized training, protective equipment, biohazard handling, and emotional sensitivity. For families or individuals dealing with the aftermath of hoarding behavior, understanding the cost of hoarder cleanup is crucial for planning and moving forward. In this guide, we’ll break down the main cost factors, price ranges, and what to expect when hiring a hoarding cleanup service.
What is Hoarder Cleanup?
Hoarder cleanup involves removing excessive belongings that have accumulated over time due to hoarding disorder. It’s not just junk removal—it often includes sorting through personal items, dealing with unsanitary conditions, and restoring the space to a livable condition. Depending on the severity of the hoarding, it may involve:
Deep cleaning and sanitization
Mold removal
Biohazard cleanup (animal waste, bodily fluids, spoiled food)
Pest control
Odor removal
Structural repairs
Average Cost of Hoarder Cleanup
The cost of hoarder cleanup can vary widely depending on the size of the property, the severity of the hoarding, and the services required. On average, hoarder cleanup costs can range from $1,000 to $25,000 or more. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Severity Level | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Light Hoarding (1-2 rooms) | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Moderate Hoarding (entire apartment) | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Severe Hoarding (entire house, biohazards) | $10,000 – $25,000+ |
Key Factors That Affect Hoarder Cleanup Cost
1. Property Size and Room Count
The larger the property and the more rooms affected, the higher the cost. A one-bedroom apartment may cost significantly less than a multi-story home filled with items.
2. Level of Contamination
If the home has been affected by mold, animal feces, urine, rotten food, or other biohazards, special safety measures and sanitization will be needed. Biohazard cleaning alone can add $1,000 to $5,000 to the total cost.
3. Volume of Items
The sheer volume of clutter and debris plays a big role. More items mean more labor hours, more dumpsters, and higher disposal fees. Some hoarding cases can involve 20–40 cubic yards of debris or more.
4. Labor Intensity and Duration
Some hoarding situations require teams to work for several days or even weeks. Professional cleanup teams typically charge $25 to $75 per worker per hour. Labor costs rise with complexity, such as navigating narrow pathways, handling fragile items, or dealing with aggressive odors.
5. Specialized Services
In many cases, additional services are required, such as:
Hazmat handling: $500 – $3,000+
Mold remediation: $500 – $6,000+
Pest control: $150 – $500+
Odor removal: $200 – $1,000+
Carpet/floor replacement: Varies depending on square footage
Dumpster and Disposal Fees
Most hoarder cleanouts involve removing large amounts of debris. Dumpster rentals typically cost between $300 and $800 per unit depending on size and duration. Disposal fees are often charged per ton of waste removed, averaging $50 to $150 per ton.
Emotional Labor and Support Services
Unlike traditional cleaning, hoarder cleanup often involves helping the homeowner or family members deal with emotional trauma, grief, or mental health challenges. Some companies include support services such as:
Family mediation
Support from licensed social workers
Coordination with mental health professionals
While these services may not be billed separately, they add to the overall value and justify higher pricing.
Is Insurance or Government Help Available?
In some cases, homeowners insurance may cover part of the cleanup cost, especially if there’s damage from water, mold, or fire hazards. However, standard policies often exclude neglect-related damages. It's best to contact your insurance provider to check for coverage.
Some states and local municipalities offer social services that can provide limited financial aid, grants, or referrals to hoarding cleanup services for vulnerable populations. Charities or nonprofits may also step in to help seniors or low-income residents.
DIY vs. Professional Hoarder Cleanup
While it’s possible to attempt a DIY hoarder cleanup, it's generally not recommended in serious cases due to:
Health risks from mold, bacteria, or pests
Emotional stress and trauma
Lack of proper disposal methods
Time and physical effort
Hiring a professional team ensures safety, speed, and thoroughness. Reputable hoarder cleanup companies follow OSHA and EPA guidelines and are trained to manage hoarding situations respectfully.
What’s Included in a Professional Hoarder Cleanup Service?
A full-service cleanup typically includes:
Free on-site estimate
Custom action plan
Item sorting and categorization
Junk removal and hauling
Sanitization and disinfection
Odor control
Final walkthrough and photos
Some companies also offer optional storage, donation coordination, or recycling services for salvageable items.
How to Choose the Right Cleanup Company
When selecting a hoarder cleanup company, consider the following:
Experience with hoarding cases
Certifications in biohazard and hazmat cleanup
Positive customer reviews
Clear and transparent pricing
Compassionate and non-judgmental approach
Avoid companies that offer extremely low quotes, as they may cut corners or lack proper training.
Conclusion: Plan and Prepare for Recovery
Hoarder cleanup is a vital step toward restoring safety, dignity, and peace of mind. Though the cost of hoarder cleanup can be significant, the long-term benefits of reclaiming your home and improving quality of life far outweigh the expense.
Before starting, request detailed estimates from multiple providers, and ask for a breakdown of what’s included. With the right professionals by your side, even the most overwhelming hoarding situation can be transformed into a safe, clean, and livable space.
