The short answer
Start with Safety Checks
Before you touch anything, put on protective gear: heavy gloves, a respirator mask, and closed-toe boots. Abandoned properties often hide sharp metal, broken glass, or animal waste. Turn off the power and water at the main shutoffs if you can, and open windows to air out the space.
Look for visible hazards like sagging ceilings, exposed wires, or standing water. If you smell gas or see sewage, leave and call the utility company or a plumber. Your health comes first, so if you feel dizzy or sick, step outside and see a doctor if symptoms persist.
Remove Trash and Debris
Start by clearing out obvious junk: old furniture, boxes, spoiled food, and broken items. Use heavy-duty trash bags and a dolly for heavy loads. Separate anything recyclable or hazardous, like paint cans or batteries, and take them to a local drop-off site.
Sweep and vacuum the floors to remove dust and dirt. Then wipe down all hard surfaces with a disinfectant cleaner. Pay extra attention to kitchens and bathrooms, where grime and bacteria build up. If you find soaked carpets or padding, pull them out and let the subfloor dry.
- Wear a mask and gloves at all times
- Turn off power and water before cleaning
- Remove all trash, then sweep and vacuum
- Disinfect counters, sinks, and floors
- Open windows to improve air flow
- Check for pests like rodents or insects
Address Water Damage and Mold
Abandoned properties often have water damage from leaks or flooding. If you see stains on walls or ceilings, or a musty smell, mold may be growing. Dry out the space with fans and a dehumidifier. Remove wet drywall or insulation, as they can harbor mold spores.
For extensive water damage or visible mold, call local water damage pros. They have the equipment to extract standing water, dry out structures, and clean contaminated areas safely. Hidden moisture issues can linger in any climate, so a professional assessment helps ensure the space is truly dry.
Clean Contents and Fabrics
Upholstered furniture, curtains, and clothing may absorb odors and contaminants. Wash what you can in hot water with detergent. For items that can't go in a washer, like sofas or mattresses, consider professional cleaning. Steam cleaning can lift dirt and kill bacteria.
If the property has carpets, a deep steam clean can remove years of grime. For heavily soiled or water-damaged contents, on-site cleaning services may be worth it. The pros can handle delicate items or large pieces that are hard to move.
Know When to Call the Pros
Some jobs are too big or risky for a homeowner. If you find sewage backup, hazardous materials, or structural damage, don't attempt it alone. The pros can handle deep cleaning after disasters, including air duct cleaning and crawlspace sanitation.
For mold that covers more than a small area, a mold professional is the right call. They can assess the extent and recommend safe removal. Insurance may help with costs, but policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see what applies.
- Large mold growth or black stains
- Standing water or sewage backup
- Strong chemical or fuel odors
- Structural damage like holes or sagging
- Pest infestations that persist
- You feel unwell while cleaning
Water damage does not wait
Call (425) 407-5186 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
What should I do first in an abandoned property?
Start with safety: wear gloves, a mask, and boots. Turn off utilities if possible, and open windows. Check for hazards like exposed wires, mold, or standing water. If you find something dangerous, leave and call a professional.
Can I clean up mold myself?
Small patches on hard surfaces can be cleaned with soap and water. But if mold covers more than a few square feet, or if it's in drywall or insulation, call a mold professional. They have the right equipment to contain and remove it safely.
How do I get rid of bad smells?
Remove the source first, like rotting food or wet materials. Clean surfaces with a disinfectant, then use baking soda or activated charcoal to absorb odors. For lingering smells in carpets or upholstery, steam cleaning or professional treatment may be needed.