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The Five Levels of Hoarding

The word “hoarding” probably evokes a particular image, made more common by shows like Hoarders that highlight extreme examples.

In reality, not all hoarders have rooms full of items piled high to the ceiling.

Hoarding is a spectrum of behavior, and we all fall upon that spectrum at some point in our lives; especially those of us who have small children living at home.

It's normal to experience hoarding behavior.
There are many resources to help that you can find in this guide.
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Great service. Staff were professional, friendly,
and understanding. My mother’s house had been hoarding for decades to the point where the conditions
threatened her life and the stability of the building itself. The Bio-One guys were able to remove all the trash and useless stuff accumulated over the years and deep clean making the house look brand new. Highly recommended.

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Clutter-Hoarding Scale

The Institute for Challenging Disorganization (there’s a relatable title!) has classified hoarding behavior into five levels on their Clutter-Hoarding Scale.
Level 1
LOW
There is clutter, but no concern for safety. Most, if not all of us, have been here.
All stairways, doors, and windows are accessible, not blocked by clutter.
The home has good ventilation and is free of bad odors.
The number of pets in the home is appropriate and compliant with zoning regulations.
Pet hair and waste is cleaned up and disposed of properly.
There are no visible pests like insects or rodents.
Level 2
GUARDED
The home is livable but in need of cleaning and may be starting to overwhelm the residents. Most of us bounce between Level 1 and Level 2.
One important exit is blocked with clutter.
Pet waste and hair can be found in the home.
Electrical and/or plumbing issues are present.
There may be a major appliance that has been broken for more than one season.
Garbage containers are overflowing.
Some mild odors are present, related to overflowing dishes, laundry, uncleaned bathrooms, etc.
Occasional presence of household pests in the home are quickly dealt with.
Level 3
GUARDED
The home is livable but in need of cleaning and may be starting to overwhelm the residents. Most of us bounce between Level 1 and Level 2.
One important exit is blocked with clutter.
Pet waste and hair can be found in the home.
Electrical and/or plumbing issues are present.
There may be a major appliance that has been broken for more than one season.
Garbage containers are overflowing.
Some mild odors are present, related to overflowing dishes, laundry, uncleaned bathrooms, etc.
Occasional presence of household pests in the home are quickly dealt with.
Level 4
HIGH
The home shows excessive clutter. Those living in Level 4 conditions require professional help to bring the home to a comfortable, hygienic space where they can thrive.
Structural damage is present, such as water damage, broken doors, and plumbing issues.
Excessive pets and pet waste may be present.
Clutter is blocking access to stairs, rooms, and exits.
Expired and rotting food is present in the home and contributes to odors.
Multiple rooms are cluttered to the extent that they cannot be used for their intended purposes.
A medium level of insect infestation is present.
Bats, squirrels, and/or rodents may be in attic or basement.
Sewage is backed up.
Level 5
SEVERE
The home is hazardous and requires professionals with safety equipment and training to clean.
Extreme indoor clutter makes important living spaces unusable.
There is no ventilation in the home.
Structural damage is irreparable.
Water and/or electrical services have been disconnected.
Mold and/or mildew is pervasive throughout the home.
Pets living in the home are at risk due to living conditions.
Occupants of the home in danger due to pet behaviors, numbers, and/or health conditions.
Household appliances are unusable due to disrepair or being blocked by clutter.
This scale offers a number of characteristics for each level that can help you determine where your space ranks.
Not every characteristic needs to be present for a home to fit a specific level. This is simply a guide designed to help you get a handle on what you’re working with.

We can help

At this level of hoarding, many people are looking for help.
We’re available and respond 24/7.
Request a service from your local Bio-One team.
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