The usual places to look
Homeowner insurance
Some policies may respond to the cleanup and the damage to the building. Call your insurer or agent, describe what happened, and ask before work starts.
Renters
A renter's policy is usually about your belongings. The building is normally the landlord's responsibility, so tell them early.
Landlords
A landlord's property policy is the first place to ask for a rented home. See the landlord page.
The estate
When the person who died owned the home, the estate's executor often decides on the cleanup and how it is paid for.
Businesses
A commercial property or business policy may apply. Ask your broker.
Vehicles
Some auto policies may cover cleaning or replacing an interior. Ask your insurer.
Questions about your policy
If you're unsure what your policy says or how your insurer is handling things, Washington’s Office of the Insurance Commissioner answers consumer questions on 800-562-6900, weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Keep your own record: photos, the company's written quote and its final invoice. The claim is between you and your insurer.
What drives the cost
How far fluids spread and what they soaked into. Whether flooring, drywall or subfloor must come out. How long the person was undiscovered. The amount of waste to dispose of, and whether rooms must be sealed off. Ask for a written quote that lists these.
Whenever you are ready
There is no rush and no obligation. Call to ask questions, get a quote, or simply understand what would happen next.
Talk it through first
Call when you are ready. Say what happened, where, and whether police or the medical examiner have released the place. An independent cleanup company can then explain what it would do.
Call (360) 555-0108Phone answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Calls may be recorded. Read the referral disclosure and privacy policy.