Cleaning up the aftermath: how clearance experts help landlords

The image of a landlord entering their property only to discover it littered with cat faeces, piles of rubbish, and decaying food might send shockwaves through the public, yet such appalling instances are not uncommon.

Regrettably, the nightmare endured by Lee Locking, who returned to his rental property after five years only to find a stomach-churning mess left by his ex-tenant, is not an isolated incident. His ordeal represents an unfortunate reality faced by many landlords.

The state in which a tenant leaves a property can range from mildly unkempt to utterly disastrous, resembling the appalling scene that Lee was confronted with. His residence was virtually uninhabitable due to mountains of rubbish, decomposing food, cat faeces, and a nauseating smell that permeated the air. This striking tale serves as a stark wake-up call to the potential difficulties and trials landlords may confront.

The aftermath of such a tenant’s departure is not merely about grappling with a colossal mess but also about addressing significant health risks. Piles of rubbish can conceal sharp objects, drug-related items, and human waste, making it hazardous and nearly impossible for landlords to rent or sell their properties again.

In these circumstances, professional clearance followed by a thorough cleaning and decontamination of the property is essential before it can be inhabited once more.

That’s where expert clearance services play a pivotal role. There are dedicated professionals who specialise in site clearance, offering exhaustive cleaning services for properties of all types, regardless of the appalling condition they’ve been left in.

These companies tackle all forms of waste, ranging from garden waste to hazardous materials, ensuring a safe and comprehensive clearance of all undesired items. This approach ensures the property is cleaned efficiently and responsibly, reducing any potential health risks linked to the residual waste.

The discovery of human or animal waste by landlords isn’t just repulsive; it poses serious health hazards. Bodily waste harbours an array of pathogens and contaminants that, if not managed properly, can lead to the transmission of infectious diseases, which can spread through direct contact or inhalation of airborne particles.

Specialised teams, proficient in the safe handling and disposal of human waste, strive to mitigate the risks of disease transmission. Leveraging their expertise, they transform the property into a safe and habitable environment, safeguarding both the landlord and future occupants.

Sharps – objects or devices with sharp points that can cut or pierce the skin, often discarded by drug users – present another potential danger.

These objects pose a significant risk of infection from diseases like Hepatitis and HIV. Trained personnel can effectively and safely remove these sharps, diminishing the risk of injury or disease transmission.

Hazardous waste poses another challenge for landlords. It’s often found in properties leased to individuals involved in illegal drug manufacturing. Without suitable management, unchecked chemicals, pesticides, oil, and other toxic waste can contaminate an entire property.

The release of these hazardous substances can threaten the health of nearby properties, as inhabitants might suffer from acute or chronic health problems due to exposure. Disregarding UK legislation related to waste disposal can also lead to legal penalties, tarnishing the reputation and financial stability of those involved.

The issue extends beyond the property, with landlords also needing to consider what lies at the end of the garden. What appears to be harmless garden waste can quickly become a problem if left unchecked. Overgrown vegetation not only creates the impression of an abandoned property but also presents a tempting target for trespassers, vandals, and thieves.

Unchecked garden waste can provide cover and shelter for vermin, increasing the risk of infestations and potential damage to the property. Without regular garden waste clearance and proper maintenance, the overall appeal and value of the property may diminish, adversely affecting the neighbourhood and possibly causing disputes with neighbours or local authorities.

In the unfortunate event that a tenant leaves the property in a state of severe disarray, landlords might be daunted by the sheer volume of cleaning and waste disposal required.

However, they don’t have to confront these challenges alone. Specialist waste clearance companies offer expert assistance in clearing all forms of waste, alleviating stress and preparing the property for future tenants or buyers.

By enlisting expert help, landlords can save both time and effort, ensuring the task is completed professionally and safely. They can rest easy knowing that the health risks associated with the mess left behind are effectively addressed.

The traumatic experiences of landlords like Lee Locking underscore the necessity for such professional services.

Michael Knibbs, Managing Director at SafeSite Security Solutions, comments: “While it may be tempting to attempt to tackle such a task oneself, the risks far outweigh the potential savings. With a team of professionals like ours ready to assist, landlords don’t have to shoulder the burden. They can concentrate on managing their property and entrust the arduous task of cleaning and clearance to the experts. It’s not merely about restoring the physical condition of the property, but also ensuring its safety for future occupants – a task best left to those who solve these issues every day.”

If you need professional site clearance – whatever the cause - contact SafeSite Security Solutions for a bespoke solution that gets the area cleared and clean again.