Unattended death cleanup
in Dallas.

Who handles what after a death at home

In Dallas County, deaths that are unattended or unexpected are generally reported to law enforcement and may be referred to the Dallas County Medical Examiner, part of the Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences. Follow their instructions. Cleanup of the property can only be arranged once authorities have released it, and it is separate from removal of the deceased and from funeral home arrangements.

Questions about the investigation, records or release of the deceased go to the responding agency or the Dallas County Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences. Questions about cleaning the property go to a cleanup provider.

Who can authorize the work?

Be clear about your role: owner, family member, tenant, estate representative or property manager. The person making the call is not always the person who can approve charges or the disposal of belongings. If several relatives are involved, agree on one contact before the assessment.

Questions to ask at the assessment

• Does the estimate include affected contents as well as surfaces?
• Could flooring, subflooring or drywall need removal, and is that included?
• Is odor treatment part of the scope or a separate job?
• How are items marked for cleaning versus disposal, and when do you approve that list?
• What documentation will you receive when the work is finished?

Arranging it from out of town

Many families coordinate from another city or state. Ask whether the provider can do the assessment with a local contact or property manager present, how photos and the written scope will be shared with you, and how payment authorization works remotely.

Before you call, use the call-planning checklist and our guide to comparing cleanup estimates.

Common questions