How To Restore A Hoarded Home For Sale Or Rental: Deep Cleaning Tips

Restoring a hoarded home for sale or rental is no small task. Years of accumulated clutter, hidden biohazards and structural issues can make the process overwhelming. But with the right strategy, it is possible to bring the property back to a liveable and marketable condition. If you’re tackling this challenge, whether as a homeowner, investor or professional cleaner, we’ll walk you through essential deep cleaning tips below to restore a hoarded home safely and efficiently.

Why Hoarded Homes Require Specialised Cleaning

Hoarded properties are more than just cluttered spaces. They often contain:

• Pest infestations (rodents, cockroaches and insects)
• Mould growth due to poor ventilation
• Structural damage from neglected maintenance
• Biohazardous materials like rotting food, bodily fluids and faeces
• Fire hazards from excessive paper, fabrics and debris

A standard cleaning approach won’t be enough. Professional-grade cleaning and safety precautions are necessary to make the home safe and habitable again.

Step 1: Assess The Property Before Cleaning

Before diving in, conduct a thorough assessment of the home:

• Check for safety hazards – Look for unstable flooring, exposed wiring and weak structures.
• Identify biohazards – Human waste, dead animals and mould require professional removal.
• Create a cleaning plan – Prioritise areas based on severity and work systematically.
• Consult professionals if needed – In severe cases, biohazard cleaning services or pest control experts may be necessary.

If the home is in extreme disrepair, it’s wise to bring in professional biohazard cleaners to handle dangerous materials safely.

Step 2: Remove Clutter And Separate Items

Hoarded homes contain a mix of trash, salvageable items and personal belongings. The key here is to sort everything systematically:

• Use a three-category system:
  1. Keep – Items in good condition and of value
  2. Donate or Sell – Usable items that others can benefit from
  3. Dispose – Irreparable, damaged or hazardous items
• Rent a skip bin for bulk waste removal.
• Handle sentimental items with care if the previous occupant is involved in the clean-up process.
• Ensure proper disposal of hazardous waste like old paint, batteries and expired chemicals.

Step 3: Deep Cleaning And Sanitisation

Once the clutter is removed, it’s time for a deep clean. Follow these steps for the best results:

Cleaning Hard Surfaces

• Use industrial-strength degreasers to remove grime from walls, floors and ceilings.
• Disinfect with hospital-grade cleaning solutions to eliminate bacteria.
• Scrub away mould with a vinegar or bleach solution (for non-porous surfaces).

Flooring Restoration

• Carpets in hoarded homes often need replacing due to stains, odours and pest damage.
• Hard floors (timber, tile or concrete) should be steam-cleaned and disinfected.
• Check for hidden damage underneath carpets or flooring caused by moisture or pests.

Odour Removal

• Open windows and use air purifiers to improve ventilation.
• Place activated charcoal in rooms to absorb lingering odours.
• If the smell persists, consider ozone treatments for deep deodorisation.
• Use enzymatic cleaners to break down organic odours from pet waste, mould or decaying matter.

Step 4: Pest Control And Structural Repairs

After cleaning, address pest and structural concerns:

• Hire professional pest control services for thorough extermination.
• Repair damaged drywall, flooring or ceilings caused by moisture or neglect.
• Check the plumbing and electrical systems for faults that may have developed over time.
• Look for signs of hidden infestations, such as droppings, nests or chew marks on wiring and furniture.

Step 5: Final Touches To Make The Home Market-Ready

A restored home should feel fresh and inviting to potential buyers or tenants. To enhance its appeal:

• Apply a fresh coat of paint to walls and ceilings.
• Replace fixtures like taps, light fittings and door handles if they are outdated.
• Stage the home with simple furniture and décor to make it feel welcoming.
• Upgrade lighting to brighten up rooms and improve the home’s ambiance.
• Consider landscaping to enhance the exterior and boost curb appeal.

When To Call A Professional Biohazard Cleaning Service

If the home has:

• Severe hoarding conditions
• Unidentified biohazards
• Mould infestations
• Rodent or insect infestations
• Contaminated water damage from burst pipes or sewage issues

Then it’s best to hire professional biohazard cleaning specialists who have the tools, training and protective gear to restore the home safely.

Restore A Hoarded Home Effectively

Restoring a hoarded home for sale or rental is a challenging but achievable task. With the right strategy, cleaning techniques and professional help when needed, you can transform a neglected property into a safe, habitable and market-ready home. The key is to be methodical, use proper cleaning methods and ensure the home is completely sanitised and repaired before listing it for sale or rent.

If you’re looking to restore a hoarded home with help from professionals, speak to the team at National Trauma (NTCSC). With over 30 years experience in professional hoarder and biohazard cleaning, we are confident we have the necessary skills and experience to restore a hoarded home to a habitable and safe state. Call us anytime 24/7 to discuss your hoarding cleanup needs.