Our cleaning process is designed to be thorough, respectful, and supportive. We take great care in addressing both the emotional and physical aspects of hoarding cleanup:

1. Assessment and Planning:  We begin by carefully assessing the severity and scope of the hoarding situation. Our team will identify the areas of your property that are most affected, prioritizing safety by looking for immediate hazards such as blocked exits, structural damage, or biohazards. Together with the client, we create a plan that addresses both the health and safety concerns while respecting the client's wishes and needs.
2. Decluttering and Removal:  Next, we help the client sort through items, organizing them into categories: keep, donate, recycle, and dispose. We consult with the client on important decisions, ensuring their comfort with every choice. The removal process starts with non-hazardous items, and all unnecessary belongings are disposed of according to local regulations. We take extra care with sensitive or personal items, ensuring they are treated with respect and confidentiality.
3. Cleaning and Sanitizing:  Once the space has been cleared, we thoroughly clean and sanitize the affected areas. This includes deep cleaning of walls, floors, and surfaces and may involve specialized cleaning agents and equipment. If pests have been attracted to the hoarded items, we address this issue and eliminate any infestations. We also focus on removing unpleasant odors that may have built up due to the hoarding situation.
4. Structural Repairs and Restoration: Hoarding can sometimes cause damage to the property, such as weakened floors, walls, or structural supports. Our team will assess any damage and, if necessary, perform repairs to ensure the property is safe, habitable, and free of hazards.
5. Support and Follow-Up: We offer support throughout the entire process, including connecting clients with local resources for ongoing assistance. After the cleanup, we work with the client to create a maintenance plan that helps keep their home free of clutter moving forward, providing strategies to maintain a safe and organized environment.

Hoarding is a complex mental health disorder that is often misunderstood. It is characterized by the excessive accumulation of possessions, which can result in overwhelming clutter. Individuals who hoard often have difficulty parting with belongings, even those that may appear worthless to others. This can create significant distress and impact daily functioning, making it difficult to maintain a safe, healthy living space.

Hoarding is not a behavior that can simply be "fixed" overnight. It's a deeply rooted issue, often tied to emotional struggles and requires understanding, empathy, and professional help to overcome. Our team at Water Extraction Team of Cleveland is here to support individuals dealing with hoarding by providing compassionate cleanup services that are free of judgment and focused on creating a healthier living environment.