Imagine coming home and finding your property has been the site of a crime. In such cases, your primary concern is with the safety of everyone involved. Once the safety of all parties is ensured, the next step is to address any possible biohazard issues.
That being said, many people are unaware of how to deal with a crime scene. Who do you call? Who’s responsible for the cleanup? How long does it take? Do you need specific certifications to take care of it?
One of the major unknowns, however, is cost. Who pays for crime scene cleanup and how much does it cost?
Let’s break down a few specifics, so you can better understand the answer to this question.
Who pays for crime scene cleanup?
- Are you the property owner? As a property owner, you are responsible for paying for the crime scene cleanup. In most cases, the property owner is held responsible for the cost as it is their legal responsibility. The owner is held accountable for the state of their property, including any biohazard risks that may arise. This means that the police department will not assist with the cleanup and the costs involved.
- Are you a renter? If you’re a renter, you’ll need to check your lease agreement to determine who is responsible for paying for the crime scene cleanup. You should be aware that the owner of the property would most likely bill you for the cost if you are the cause of the crime, which could lead to eviction or even legal charges.
- Do you have insurance? In some cases, specific types of insurance coverage will include crime scene cleanup costs. If you have renter’s or homeowners’ insurance, it’s essential to check if crime scene cleanup is included in your policy coverage. Suppose you don’t have insurance that covers crime scene cleanup. In that case, you may have to pay out of your pocket, as the cost can be quite high.
- Do you live in an apartment? Apartment complexes will typically cover crime scene cleanup. This is because apartment owners and managers understand that crime can and does happen. It’s crucial for tenants to read their rental agreements before signing a lease. Knowing what is and isn’t covered can help avoid headaches during such a situation. That being said, if it’s not your apartment – and it was the apartment of a deceased family member or a friend – then the apartment complex will typically be responsible for the cleaning and the costs associated with it.
How much does crime scene cleanup cost?
The cost of crime scene cleanup starts anywhere from $1,300 and can increase depending on a variety of factors. The degree and/or type of biohazard present, the degree of structural damage present, and the square footage affected by the incident.
Keep Reading: Crime scene cleanup FAQs
In the worst-case scenario where a crime takes place on your property, you must have an understanding of who is responsible for the cleanup cost. As a property owner, it’s essential to keep your insurance in check, and for renters, reading your lease agreement is vital. Lastly, make sure to work with a reputable crime scene cleanup company that understands the gravity of the situation and will execute the job correctly. Remember, safety should always come first, and in the event of an emergency, don’t hesitate to call the appropriate authorities.
