Hoarding Clean Outs Give A Fresh Start

8/26/2016 (Permalink)

Clutter can lead to hoarding.

You'd probably be very surprised at the number of jobs we get for cleaning out homes where an occupant has developed a hoarding disorder, through various events.

Often, the occupant has been a victim of stressors in their life.  The stress manifestation in these cases we have seen have come from PTSD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from military service; anxiety issues; and depression from a loss of some kind - of a job, a death, a divorce; and other times from mental illness. 

SERVPRO of Great Neck/Port Washington has seen many of these cases.  We get the calls generally when the hoarding is discovered and the occupant is in immediate peril of losing their home - either being condemned or losing their lease, or some other imminent peril - like another household member is critically ill and needs to come home to a clean and safe environment.  

People who hoard are terribly embarrassed by their situation and are often apologetic on the initial call.  They have found it has become more than just they can manage.  At the same time, they are anxious that a team will be in their space, cleaning and moving their "stuff".  Hoarding is a health hazard, particularly if it involves pets, has attracted rodents and insects, involves hypodermic syringes, or involves animal or human waste.  People do live in these terrible conditions - often with other family members and children.  These conditions need to be corrected in order to have a healthy household. 

At SERVPRO of Great Neck/Port Washington, we remove trash, move items to storage facilities or discard, clean and sanitize.  The result is not just a clean space - it usually has a dramatic uplifting effect on these clients.  We get multiple calls after these jobs in particular are completed - from overjoyed people who feel freed of their chains in a way and are marveling at how different and clean their home now is. Many say that they plan to maintain their spaces, and with their raised spirits, we hope that they do.  We are happy to have helped by giving them a fresh start.  

If you or someone you know is ready for a clean out, in the Long Island, NYC area, SERVPRO of Great Neck/Port Washington is here to help.  Call us at 516-767-9600