Clearing a hoarded house is a challenging task that requires patience, sensitivity, and a structured approach. Unlike a standard house clearance, hoarded homes often contain excessive amounts of belongings, which can lead to safety hazards, emotional distress, and logistical difficulties. Whether you are helping a loved one, managing a property after bereavement, or dealing with an extreme hoarding situation, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Step 1: Assess the Situation
Before starting the clearance, take the time to evaluate the extent of the hoarding. Consider the following:
- Level of hoarding – Is the home difficult to walk through due to clutter? Are essential areas like the kitchen and bathroom accessible?
- Health and safety risks – Look for mold, pests, fire hazards, and unstable piles of items that could fall.
- Valuable or important items – Hoarders often keep cash, jewelry, and important documents hidden among clutter.
- Specialist help required – If the property contains biohazards, structural damage, or extreme filth, professional cleaners may be needed.
Once you have a clear understanding of the situation, you can create a plan to tackle the clearance efficiently.
Step 2: Plan and Organize the Clearance
A hoarded house cannot be cleared in a single rush—it requires a structured approach. Consider:
- Breaking the task into sections – Start with one room at a time to make progress manageable.
- Setting realistic goals – Hoarded homes take longer to clear, so set achievable targets for each session.
- Gathering necessary supplies – This includes gloves, masks, strong bin bags, boxes, cleaning supplies, and protective clothing.
Having a plan will help prevent feeling overwhelmed and ensure an efficient process.
Step 3: Sort Items into Categories
Sorting through a hoarded home is emotionally and physically demanding. Use a simple categorization method:
- Keep – Essential items, sentimental belongings, and valuables.
- Donate – Usable items that can go to charities or community organizations.
- Recycle – Items like paper, glass, metal, and plastic that can be repurposed.
- Dispose – Broken, expired, or unsanitary items that cannot be salvaged.
For extreme hoarding situations, it may be necessary to bring in professional clearance services to speed up the process.
Step 4: Prioritize Safety
Hoarded homes can pose several safety risks, including:
- Structural instability – The weight of excessive belongings can cause floorboards or furniture to collapse.
- Pest infestations – Rodents, insects, and mold may be present in the clutter.
- Hazardous materials – Old food, chemicals, or biohazards may need specialist handling.
Wear protective gear, including gloves, masks, and sturdy shoes, and ensure there is adequate ventilation during the clearance. If necessary, consult pest control or biohazard professionals.
Step 5: Identify and Secure Valuables
Hoarders often accumulate valuables but may misplace or forget about them. Take time to check:
- Drawers, cabinets, and under furniture.
- Piles of newspapers, books, and clothing.
- Envelopes, tins, or unusual storage spots.
Look out for cash, jewelry, legal documents, and sentimental items that the family may want to keep.
Step 6: Responsible Disposal and Recycling
Clearing a hoarded home generates a large amount of waste, so it’s important to dispose of items responsibly:
- Donate usable furniture, clothing, and household goods.
- Recycle where possible to minimize landfill waste.
- Use waste removal services for items that cannot be salvaged.
Hiring a professional house clearance service can help manage disposal in an eco-friendly manner.
Step 7: Deep Clean the Property
Once the clutter is removed, the property will likely need deep cleaning to restore it to a livable condition. This may include:
- Removing dust, mold, and grime from surfaces.
- Sanitizing the kitchen and bathroom.
- Repairing any structural damage or leaks.
Professional cleaners may be needed for extreme cases where the home has been neglected for years.
Step 8: Support the Hoarder or Family Members
Clearing a hoarded home is an emotional process, especially if the hoarder is still present. If they are struggling with letting go, approach the situation with understanding:
- Acknowledge their emotions and avoid being forceful.
- Encourage gradual progress rather than immediate clearance.
- Seek professional mental health support if needed.
For families handling a hoarded estate after bereavement, allow them time to process their emotions before making decisions.
Final Thoughts
Clearing a hoarded house requires patience, planning, and sensitivity. By breaking the task into manageable steps, ensuring safety, and being mindful of the emotional challenges, the process can be completed in a way that respects the hoarder’s experiences while restoring the home to a safe condition. If the situation is too overwhelming, professional house clearance services can provide essential support.