Animal hoarding cleanup

Updated 2026-09-13

A home with many animals and no ability to care for them produces ammonia levels that can be dangerous to breathe, waste soaked into floors and walls, and often deceased animals. Cleanup is a biohazard job, and it starts with the animals, not the house.

First calls

Animal control or a humane society handles removing the animals and can bring veterinary help. If the resident is an older adult or vulnerable, Adult Protective Services may also be involved. Cleanup companies generally will not start until the animals are out.

What the cleanup involves

Technicians in respirators remove contaminated carpet, pad and often drywall and subfloor, treat remaining surfaces, and run ozone or hydroxyl equipment for odor. In serious cases the home needs an industrial hygienist to sign off before anyone lives there again. Costs are usually higher than an equivalent hoarding job because of the material removal, commonly $3,000 to $10,000 for a house.

Choosing a company

Ask specifically about animal waste and ammonia experience. Ask whether they test air quality after the work. And ask about the resident: many animal hoarders are deeply attached to the animals and will need the same care in the process as any hoarding cleanup.