Guide
Who pays for biohazard cleanup?
Payment depends on what happened, where, and whose property it is. These are the usual sources, in the order most families check them.
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Homeowner's or renter's insurance
Some policies pay for biohazard cleanup, some do not, and many depend on the cause. Call the insurer before work starts and ask what it covers, what it needs, and whether someone will inspect.
Write down the claim number and who you spoke with. This site does not file or handle claims.
Auto insurance
For a vehicle, ask whether comprehensive coverage includes cleanup.
The property owner
In a rental, the owner usually decides who does the work. Renters should speak to the landlord or manager before hiring anyone.
The estate
When the person who died owned the home, the cost often falls to their estate. The executor or administrator should be involved before you sign.
Tennessee Criminal Injuries Compensation
The state Treasury runs Criminal Injuries Compensation for innocent victims of violent crime. Among the costs it can consider is cleaning and removal of materials, when the crime happened in the victim's home or in the home of an eligible relative. Repairs and replacing things are not included.
- The crime was reported to police within 15 days, unless there is good cause or the victim is a minor.
- It happened in Tennessee, and the victim did not contribute to it.
- The claim is made within two years, online.
- Anything insurance or another source pays is left out.
Keep the police report number and the cleanup company's itemized invoice. An arrest is not needed to apply.
Questions to settle with the company
- Will you give me a written price before starting?
- Do you bill the insurer, or do I pay and claim it back?
- When is payment due?