Discovering an unattended death is a shocking and emotionally overwhelming experience that can leave you feeling lost, confused, and unsure of what to do next. Whether you're a property owner, landlord, family member, or someone who has unexpectedly encountered such a tragic situation, knowing the right steps can help you handle this challenging moment with clarity and care.
This article will walk you through the critical actions you need to take. It provides practical advice to help you handle this sensitive scenario professionally and compassionately. Read on for the details!
Contact Emergency and Professional Cleanup Services
When discovering an unattended death, your first step is to contact emergency services. Call 911 and provide clear details about the situation, including the location and condition of the property. Emergency responders will assess the scene to determine if there's a need for further investigation. They'll also confirm the cause of death and issue a death certificate, ensuring all legal and procedural requirements are met.
Once the authorities complete their work and clear the property, reach out to a professional biohazard cleanup service. Dealing with the physical aftermath involves health risks due to biohazards like bodily fluids and decomposition.
Certified unattended death sanitation specialists have the skills, training, and tools to clean the area while following strict health and safety regulations. Their services will remove hazardous materials, eliminate odors, and restore the property to a safe, usable condition.
Ensure Your Personal Safety
Your safety should come first when dealing with unattended deaths. The scene may contain biohazards, such as fluids, decomposition, or pests, which can pose serious health risks. To protect yourself, avoid touching or moving anything, as this could expose you to harmful substances. Instead, maintain a safe distance and wait for professional assistance.
If you notice anything unusual, such as signs of forced entry or potential foul play, act quickly. Step away from the area and immediately contact law enforcement to report your concerns. This will help ensure your safety and the safety of others around you.
Notify the Next of Kin
If you know the deceased's family or next of kin, it's crucial to inform them immediately. This can be a sensitive and emotional conversation, so handle it with care and empathy. Be sure to provide clear details about the situation and reassure them that the authorities are handling the necessary procedures.
When the next of kin is unknown or challenging to locate, law enforcement or legal professionals may need to step in. This is especially common if the deceased lived alone or had few family connections.
Secure the Property
After notifying the next of kin, you should focus on securing the premises. This step is crucial, especially if the property is vacant or exposed. Start by checking all doors and windows to ensure they are locked and intact.
If needed, consider changing the locks to prevent unauthorized access. This will protect the property and safeguard any belongings or crucial documents that may be valuable to the deceased's family or estate.
Understand Legal Obligations
As a property owner or manager, you may need to address specific legal responsibilities following an unattended death cleanup. These could involve filing required reports, notifying local authorities, or managing liabilities tied to the property.
For instance, if the property is a rental dental practice, you might need to inform the tenants, coordinate access to the premises, or review lease renewal term to ensure compliance with legal and professional standards. This will help maintain transparency and professionalism while ensuring the property remains functional and safe for the tenants.
To handle these requirements effectively, consult a legal expert who can guide you through the process. This will ensure you stay compliant with local laws and prevent potential complications in the future.
Notify Insurance Providers
If the property is insured, contact the insurance company immediately to report the incident. Depending on the terms of the coverage, many policies may cover expenses such as biohazard cleanup or property damage. To support your claim, gather the necessary documentation, including the death certificate and cleanup invoices.
Prompt communication with your insurer is essential. It'll help you prevent delays in processing your claim and ensure you receive any benefits or reimbursements you're eligible for under the policy. This can help ease the financial burden associated with the situation.
Work With the Family or Estate Executor
The deceased's family or estate executor will typically handle personal belongings and financial affairs. It's crucial to collaborate with them in a respectful and organized manner.
To help ease this difficult process, provide access to the property by sharing keys or coordinating times for them to collect personal items. Additionally, maintaining open communication with the family and estate executor will help avoid misunderstandings. It'll ensure everyone feels supported and make the process smoother for the family and the estate executor.
Assess the Property's Condition
Once cleanup is complete and family arrangements are settled, you need to evaluate the property's condition. If the building is unattended for an extended period, issues like structural damage, pest infestations, or mold might develop. Addressing these problems will help prevent further damage and ensure the property's safety.
This assessment is also a good time to determine whether the property needs repairs or updates. If you plan to rent or sell the property, resolving these issues can enhance its appeal and value, making the transition smoother for future occupants.
Conclusion
Facing the aftermath of an unattended death is a deeply challenging experience. But with the above steps, you can navigate this difficult situation with care, respect, and professionalism. Remember, you don't have to handle this alone. Reach out to professionals, whether for the biohazard cleanup team, legal guidance, or property repairs. Taking the right steps will help protect the property and its value and support the deceased's family during this sensitive and difficult time.