Guide
Who pays for biohazard cleanup?
The answer depends on what happened and whose property it is. Here are the usual sources, in the order most people check them.
Homeowners insurance
Many homeowners policies cover some biohazard cleanup, depending on the wording and the cause. Call your insurer before the work starts. Describe what happened, ask whether cleanup is covered, and ask what photos, reports or estimates they need.
Write down the claim number and the adjuster's name. The cleanup company can send its scope of work to you, and you can pass it to the insurer. Dealing with the insurer stays with you.
Renters, landlords and estates
In a rented home, the building belongs to the landlord, so the landlord's insurer is usually the first to ask about the structure. A renter's own policy may cover their belongings.
When the person who died owned the home, the cost may be paid from their estate. Talk to whoever is handling the estate before you sign anything.
CalVCB: the state's victim compensation program
The California Victim Compensation Board can reimburse crime scene cleanup when the crime happened in a residence or a vehicle. Any person who pays, or agrees to pay, for the cleanup can claim (CalVCB).
Three conditions matter on the day you hire someone:
- The company must be registered with the California Department of Public Health as a trauma scene waste management practitioner.
- CalVCB pays for cleaning up biohazard material, not for replacing damaged property such as a sofa or carpet.
- CalVCB only pays what other sources, such as insurance, do not cover.
You can apply online, by paper application, or through a County Victim Witness Assistance Center. Customer service: 800-777-9229 (CalVCB for victims). Applications are generally due within seven years of the crime, with some exceptions, and the victim must cooperate with law enforcement (CalVCB questions).
Keep the itemized invoice and proof of payment. CalVCB will ask for them.
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.
Phone answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Calls may be recorded. Referral disclosure and privacy policy.