A Difficult Time, Practical Matters That Need Attention
After the loss of a loved one, there is much that needs to be arranged. The property must be emptied, cleaned and handed over — often within a specific deadline. This is an emotionally demanding task that asks a lot of you. Zorgvrij Schoonmaak takes this burden off your hands, with discretion and respect.
Who Is Responsible for the Cleaning?
Many people think the municipality, police or public health service is responsible for cleaning after a death. This is not the case. The responsibility lies with the surviving relatives or heirs. This applies to both rental and owner-occupied properties.
If there is an unnatural death (for example an accident or violent crime), the police may release the property so that the surviving relatives can get started. In the case of a natural death, the property is usually immediately available.
What Does Cleaning After a Death Involve?
- •Removing personal belongings and contents
- •Thorough cleaning of all rooms
- •Deodorising the property (in case of undetected death over a longer period)
- •Disinfecting bathroom and kitchen
- •Removing flooring if necessary
- •Sweeping the property clean for the landlord or buyer
Note: in the case of a death involving decomposition or undetected death over a longer period, specialist cleaning is required. Always contact a professional company — cleaning yourself can be dangerous.
How Long Do I Have to Complete the Cleaning?
For a rental property, the handover deadline is usually 1 to 3 months, depending on the landlord. For an owner-occupied property, the deadline is usually determined by the sale or transfer. Contact the landlord or estate agent for the exact deadline.
What Does Cleaning After a Death Cost?
The costs depend on the size of the property, the level of contamination and whether decomposition is involved. For a standard property clearance with cleaning, expect €500 to €1,500. For specialist cleaning (decomposition odour, decomposition), costs can run up to €2,000 or more.
Zorgvrij Schoonmaak always works with fixed prices — so you know in advance what you're paying. Contact us for a free inspection and quote.
How Can Zorgvrij Schoonmaak Help?
- •Complete property clearance: removing, sorting, disposing of contents
- •Thorough cleaning of the entire property
- •Sweeping clean for landlord or buyer
- •Removing flooring (carpet, laminate, adhesive residue)
- •Discreet approach — no advertising on our van
- •Collaboration with funeral directors and estate agents
We understand this is a difficult time. Our team works respectfully, discreetly and quickly. You don't need to worry about the practical matters — we take care of it.
Need help with cleaning or clearance after a death? Contact us for a discreet conversation.
Contact us