We are sorry for your loss
Cleanup after a suicide
Nobody should have to clean the place where they lost someone. When you are ready, a cleanup company can do it quietly, and you can stay away while it happens.
Phone answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
What happens first
A suicide is reported to the county coroner, and the police may attend as well. They need to finish before anything in the room is moved or cleaned.
The coroner's staff will explain where your loved one is being taken and ask you to choose a funeral home. In Richland County, the coroner's office can give you a list of funeral homes if you need one (Richland County Coroner FAQ).
Personal belongings held by the coroner are returned to the legal next of kin. Anything the police kept is released by that agency, so ask the officer how to get it back.
What the cleanup company does
The company removes and disposes of anything that cannot be cleaned, then cleans and disinfects the room or vehicle. Many families ask that it be done without a marked van outside. You can ask about that on the call.
If there are things you want to keep, say so before work starts: letters, photos, a phone, a piece of clothing. A careful company will set aside personal items it finds and check with you.
You do not need to be there. Someone needs to let the company in and agree to the work, and that can be a relative or a friend.
Questions people ask
Does insurance cover this?
Sometimes. Homeowner and renter policies differ, and only your insurer can say. Our guide to who pays explains what to ask.
Can I call even if I am not sure I want to hire anyone yet?
Yes. Ask what the work would involve and how the price is set. You can decide later.
When you are ready, one call is enough
Tell the company what happened, which room or vehicle it is in, and whether the police and coroner have finished. They will explain the work, when they can come and how they arrive at a price.
Talk to a cleanup company
The call puts you in touch with an independent biohazard cleanup company that works in the Columbia area. Say what happened and ask what you need to know. Whether you hire them is up to you.
Call (803) 637-8296Phone answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Calls may be recorded. Read the referral disclosure and the privacy policy.