What is the average cost to clean a hoarder house in the UK?
The cost of cleaning a hoarder's house in the UK varies widely based on several factors, including the size of the property, the level of hoarding, and the presence of hazardous materials. On average, cleaning a hoarder's house can cost between £2,000 and £5,000, with a typical cost around £3,500. However, in more severe cases, especially with larger properties that require extensive cleaning or have hazardous materials, the costs can escalate significantly, potentially reaching upwards of £25,000
What are the 5 levels of hoarding?
Hoarding can be categorised into five levels, ranging from mild to severe:
- Level 1: This is the least severe level. The home is considered cluttered, but all doors and stairways are accessible. No help is typically needed at this stage.
- Level 2: There's more clutter, and at least one exit is blocked. Housekeeping is neglected, and there may be some mild odours or pet waste.
- Level 3: Clutter is noticeable in living spaces. There may be unused rooms, and hygiene becomes an issue. There could be noticeable odours, and pest control might be necessary.
- Level 4: Structural damage to the home may be present. There are likely poor sanitation conditions, and professional help is needed.
- Level 5: This is the most severe level. Large areas of the home are unusable, and there may be serious safety and health hazards.
How do you start cleaning when you are a hoarder?
Cleaning when you're a hoarder can be overwhelming. Here are some steps to start:
- Acknowledge the Issue: Recognise that the clutter is impacting your life and that you need to address it.
- Start Small: Choose a small, manageable area to start cleaning. This can help build momentum.
- Sort Items: Categorise items into keep, donate, and discard. Be realistic about what you need and can let go of.
- Ask for Help: Consider reaching out to family, friends, or professionals for support.
- Maintain Progress: Once an area is cleaned, work to keep it that way while gradually expanding your efforts to other areas.
Addressing hoarding requires patience and often a multifaceted approach, including mental health support, to ensure sustainable progress.
