Cleaning up after a traumatic event is about restoring safety, dignity, and health to a space that’s been exposed to biohazards. While some property owners may feel tempted to manage the cleanup themselves, the reality is that DIY crime scene clean up can pose serious risks.
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Why Crime Scene Cleanup Requires Specialist Handling
Crime scenes often involve biological materials like blood, tissue, or other bodily fluids, all of which can carry dangerous pathogens such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. These aren’t stains you can simply wipe away. Without proper personal protective equipment (PPE), industry-grade disinfectants, and containment protocols, exposure can result in severe illness.
Not to mention the fact that emotional trauma can cloud judgement. Attempting to clean a scene involving a loved one can intensify grief and psychological stress, making the experience even more distressing.
Professional crime scene cleaning services not only have the training and certification to handle biohazards safely but also bring empathy and professionalism to situations that demand care and discretion.
The Health Risks of DIY Cleanup
When you attempt crime scene clean up without proper equipment, you risk:
- Infectious disease exposure: Bloodborne pathogens can remain viable for days or even weeks on contaminated surfaces.
- Cross-contamination: Without isolation protocols, you may unintentionally spread contaminants to other parts of the property.
- Inhalation of hazardous substances: Some decomposition gases or cleaning agents can cause respiratory issues.
- Long-term microbial growth: Missed organic material can lead to mould, bacteria, and foul odours.
These risks aren’t always visible, which is why professional trauma cleaners use testing methods like ATP swabs to verify complete decontamination.
Legal and Insurance Implications
In New Zealand, biohazard cleanup must follow health and safety guidelines laid out by WorkSafe and public health agencies. Improper disposal of biohazardous waste, such as blood-soaked materials or sharps, can lead to hefty fines or even criminal charges.
Plus, most insurance providers require certified documentation from recognised crime scene cleaning contractors to process claims. DIY efforts may not qualify for reimbursement or could void your coverage altogether.
The Real Cost of Crime Scene Cleaning
One of the reasons people consider handling crime scene cleaning themselves is cost. But the price of professional services often outweighs the hidden financial burden of DIY risks.
Crime Scene Cleaning Cost in NZ
Professional crime scene cleaning costs in New Zealand generally start at around $500 to $1,000+ depending on:
- Severity and extent of contamination
- Type of property (residential, commercial, vehicle)
- Time elapsed since the incident
- Disposal and decontamination needs
At RESTATE, we provide fixed-price quotes with no hidden costs, along with detailed documentation for insurance claims. Our services are available 24/7 across Auckland, Hamilton, and beyond, ensuring fast, compliant, and compassionate cleanups.
Real-Life Scenarios: What Can Go Wrong?
Here are a few situations where DIY cleanup went dangerously wrong:
- Missed blood in porous materials like timber floors or upholstery — leading to foul odours and health complaints weeks later.
- Homeowners disposing of biohazardous waste in regular bins — resulting in council fines and recontamination.
- Cleaning without PPE — causing secondary infections and hospitalisation.
These aren’t rare accidents, but common outcomes when untrained individuals underestimate the complexity of biohazard cleaning.
What to Expect From Professional Crime Scene Cleaning Services
At RESTATE, we follow the IICRC S540 Standard for Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup. This includes:
- Comprehensive risk assessment
- Secure containment and PPE use
- Disinfection with hospital-grade solutions
- ATP testing to verify cleanliness
- Odour neutralisation
- Disposal in accordance with NZ biohazard waste laws
- Optional reinstatement or restoration services if needed
Our team handles each case with empathy and professionalism, ensuring the scene is not only cleaned but fully restored to safe living conditions.
When to Call the Professionals
You should contact a certified crime scene clean up team immediately if:
- Blood, bodily fluids, or other biological matter are present
- The scene involves an unattended death, suicide, or serious injury
- You’re unsure about safe handling and waste disposal
- There’s a need for insurance documentation or property reinstatement
Even in situations that seem minor, calling a professional ensures peace of mind, as well as the safety of everyone involved.
Biohazard Cleanup With RESTATE: Discreet. Certified. Compassionate.
RESTATE is one of New Zealand’s trusted crime scene cleaning companies, offering trauma and forensic cleaning services that meet the highest standards. With experience across Auckland, Hamilton and expanding into Christchurch, we’re committed to restoring your property with speed, respect, and discretion.
Service Areas
We provide crime scene clean up in:
- Auckland (North Shore, South, East, West & Central)
- Hamilton
- Christchurch (coming soon)
Emergency response available 24/7.
Final Thoughts
The aftermath of a crime scene or traumatic event is difficult enough. Don’t risk your health, legal safety, or emotional wellbeing with DIY attempts. RESTATE is here to help, offering expert biohazard cleanup services you can trust.
Need crime scene cleanup? Call RESTATE today on 0800 332 664 or Contact Us for a discreet, no-obligation quote.
