Hoarding Cleanup in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, McLean, Woodbridge, and the Surrounding Areas

Hoarding environments in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, McLean, Woodbridge, and the surrounding areas can be dangerous, both for the hoarder as well as those aiding in the cleanup process. We understand the overwhelming nature and hazards hoarding environments can hold for the mental and physical wellbeing of the individuals involved.

Having a professional hoarding cleanup from T.A.C.T. of Northern Virginia will provide you with a team of dedicated, experienced individuals who have the proper equipment, specialized skills, and proprietary blend of cleaning solutions to protect themselves and others while also providing emotional support throughout the process for the hoarder and their families. We also recognize that the clutter can often consist of items of personal and sentimental value, making it difficult to part with them. Our team at T.A.C.T. of Northern Virginia works closely with the client to understand exactly what level of service they require and execute the process with clear communication, understanding and compassion. Contact us when you have a hoarding cleanup situation.

Understanding the Levels of Hoarding 

Not all hoarding environments are the same. This is precisely why there is no “one-size-fits-all" solution when tackling any hoarding environment. Hoarding severity is categorized into 5 Levels. Level 1 being the least severe and having the least amount of clutter but can still cause disruption to day-to-day activities. While Level 5 is the most severe and poses a potential mental health and physical threat to the residents and visitors.

Level 1 - Minimal Hoarding: In a level 1 hoarding situation, the space is clutter-free, and individuals can function without any significant issues. There are no sanitation or safety concerns, and hoarding behavior may not be immediately clear, but there may be several areas that show early signs of excessive clutter.

Level 2 - Mild Hoarding: In a level 2 hoarding situation, some areas of the home may be inaccessible, but the overall living conditions are still relatively functional. There is an increase in clutter and disorganization and there might be signs of odors, dirty surfaces, or excessive dust. Safety hazards could be starting to develop for the residents and pets in the home.

Level 3 - Moderate Hoarding: In a level 3 hoarding situation, the clutter becomes more severe, with multiple blocked areas impeding navigation throughout the home. At this level, there may be unusable essential household appliances and structural damage may be present. There may be noticeable odors, pest infestations, mold, or other biohazard issues. Sanitation concerns become more significant and professional services are advised recommended.

Level 4 - Severe Hoarding: In a level 4 hoarding situation, there is extreme clutter with most areas of the home inaccessible. There are substantial health and safety risks at this level and professional intervention is necessary. There could be rotting food, animal feces or other biohazards present. Utilities may be disconnected, and the home may have severe structural damage.

Level 5 - Extreme Hoarding: In a level 5 hoarding situation, a living space is completely overwhelmed by clutter, making it uninhabitable. Immediate professional intervention is needed to address the situation and restore a safe living environment. There may be human waste or decomposing animals present, and the home's structural integrity is often compromised. Level 5 hoarding situations present a substantial risk of fire, injury, or illness.

Hoarding environments often will include areas being blocked or difficult to access, appliances are inaccessible, do not function properly and/or used for their intended purpose. There may also be the presence of mold and other sanitation issues. More severe hoarding environments, Levels 3 – 5, can pose as a physical hazard to everyone involved such as the presence of feces and waste and/or other bodily fluids; falling hazards or risk of injury, insect or rodent infestations, harmful mold, and other airborne illnesses as well as structural damage.

If you or someone you know is living in a hoarding environment, it is crucial to approach the situation with understanding and compassion. Hoarding is a mental health condition that afflicts many and requires patience. Help with getting started in the cleanup process starts with a call to a trusted and professional team of biohazard experts like T.A.C.T. of Northern Virginia. We work closely with the hoarder and their family to understand their needs and expectations, create a plan of action with open communication, expertise and compassion, to help reclaim their homes as a healthy and safe space.

To learn more about the Levels of Hoarding visit or get a quote visit tactpwc.com/hoarding-cleanup-alexandria-arlington-fairfax-mclean-woodbridge-va.html.