Homicide, assault, shooting, serious injury

Crime scene and trauma cleanup in Lancaster

When a violent crime happens in a home or business, the scene stays with investigators until they release it. After that, the cleaning is left to the owner or the family. It does not have to be you.

Call (661) 555-0103

Phone answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Hallway with a bedroom doorway sealed by clear plastic sheeting and a zipper — Illustration only, not a real job or address.

Before the cleanup can start

Sheriff's investigators and, if someone died, the Department of Medical Examiner decide when the scene is released. In Lancaster and Quartz Hill, the Lancaster Station at (661) 948-8466 can tell you the status; in Palmdale, Acton and Leona Valley it is the Palmdale Station at (661) 272-2400.

Ask whether any items are being kept as evidence. Anything taken by investigators won't be there when the cleanup starts, and you may need a list of it for insurance.

Take photos of each room before work starts, from the doorway. Insurers and the state compensation program may ask for them.

What the work covers

The company removes blood and tissue, cuts out carpet, pad, drywall or flooring the fluids reached, and disinfects the surfaces that stay. Some scenes also leave fingerprint powder or chemical residue behind from the investigation.

Ask the company to tell you before it removes anything with personal value. Photos, papers and keepsakes can often be cleaned or set aside.

Gloved hands wiping a bathroom counter next to a spray bottle

Questions about crime scene cleanup

Can I go back into the house before it is cleaned?

Once it is released you may, but stay out of the affected room and keep children and pets away. Close the door if you can.

A business was the scene. Is anything different?

Employers whose staff could be exposed to blood must have a written exposure control plan and protective equipment under OSHA's bloodborne pathogens standard (OSHA). If you have no such plan, leave it to a cleanup company.

Do I need a police report number?

If you plan to apply to CalVCB or your insurer, yes. Ask the investigating deputy for it before they leave.

Ready when you are

There is no need to call before the home or car has been released. When it has, one call puts you in touch with an independent cleanup company that works in the Antelope Valley.