Frequently Asked Questions About Crime Scene Cleanup & Biohazard Services

Answered by T.A.C.T. PWC

1. What is crime scene cleanup?

Crime scene cleanup involves the professional removal, cleaning, disinfection, and proper disposal of biohazardous materials left behind after traumatic events. This may include blood, bodily fluids, tissue, and other biological contaminants. At T.A.C.T. PWC, all crime scene cleanup services are performed discreetly, thoroughly, and in full compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

2. What qualifies as a biohazard?

A biohazard is any biological material that poses a risk to human health. This includes blood and bodily fluids, decomposing tissue, human or animal waste, contaminated needles, and areas affected by viruses, bacteria, or mold. Biohazards are often not visible and can remain dangerous without proper professional decontamination.

3. What situations require biohazard or crime scene cleanup?

You should contact T.A.C.T. PWC for situations including, but not limited to:

• Homicides, suicides, or violent crime scenes
• Unattended or undiscovered deaths
• Traumatic accidents involving bodily fluids
• Hoarding situations with biological contamination
• Sewage backups or overflows
• Drug-related incidents involving needles or hazardous residue
• Virus or pathogen contamination
• Animal infestations or remains

Once emergency responders and law enforcement have cleared the scene, T.A.C.T. PWC steps in to restore safety and sanitation.

4. Who is responsible for cleaning up a crime scene?

In most cases, property owners, families, or business owners are responsible for arranging crime scene cleanup after authorities have completed their work. T.A.C.T. PWC assists clients throughout this process and can work directly with insurance providers when coverage applies.

5. Does insurance cover crime scene or biohazard cleanup?

Many homeowners’ and commercial insurance policies provide coverage for biohazard and crime scene cleanup. T.A.C.T. PWC helps document the cleanup, provides detailed invoices, and communicates with insurance companies to help streamline the claims process.

6. Is it safe to clean a crime scene yourself?

No. Cleaning a crime scene without proper training and equipment can expose individuals to serious health risks, including infectious diseases. Household cleaners and basic PPE are not sufficient. T.A.C.T. PWC uses industry-approved protocols, hospital-grade disinfectants, and specialized equipment to ensure complete and safe decontamination.

7. How quickly can T.A.C.T. PWC respond?

T.A.C.T. PWC offers rapid-response and emergency biohazard cleanup services. In many cases, our team can be on-site within hours once the scene has been cleared to assess the situation and begin cleanup.

8. Will the cleanup remove all odors?

Yes. Odors caused by blood, bodily fluids, decomposition, or biological contamination are addressed using professional odor removal and neutralization techniques. T.A.C.T. PWC identifies and eliminates the source of the odor, not just the surface smell.

9. What happens to contaminated items?

Items that cannot be safely cleaned—such as porous or heavily contaminated materials—are removed and disposed of in accordance with strict biohazard waste regulations. All disposal is handled legally and responsibly by T.A.C.T. PWC.

10. Are your technicians trained and certified?

Yes. T.A.C.T. PWC technicians are fully trained and certified in biohazard cleanup and the proper handling and disposal of hazardous waste. Our team follows OSHA standards and industry best practices. In accordance with Virginia requirements, T.A.C.T. PWC is IICRC certified.

11. How do you handle sensitive situations like suicide or unattended death?

T.A.C.T. PWC specializes in crime scene and unattended death cleanup. We approach every situation with compassion, discretion, and respect. Our technicians understand the emotional impact these events have on families and property owners and work discreetly and professionally to minimize additional stress.

12. What makes T.A.C.T. PWC different from other biohazard cleanup companies?

T.A.C.T. PWC is part of a nationally recognized network founded by a veteran police officer with more than a decade of experience in the biohazard industry. Our services extend beyond cleanup—we prioritize safety, regulatory compliance, compassion, and community care. We also offer OSHA training, outreach services, and support for municipalities and organizations.

13. What areas does T.A.C.T. PWC serve?

T.A.C.T. PWC serves residential, commercial, and municipal clients throughout Prince William County and the surrounding areas. Please contact us to confirm service availability.

14. How do I get started?

If you are facing a biohazard or crime scene situation, contact T.A.C.T. PWC as soon as the scene is cleared. Our team will provide an assessment, explain the cleanup process, and begin services promptly.

Final Note

Crime scene and biohazard cleanup is not just about cleaning—it’s about restoring safety, dignity, and peace of mind. T.A.C.T. PWC is here to help when it matters most.