Quick answer
An estate cleanout empties a house of everything left after family has taken what they want and anything valuable has been sold. A cleanout company sorts, donates, recycles and hauls away the rest, then leaves the home broom-clean and ready to sell. Before the crew arrives, search for papers, valuables and keepsakes. Pricing is usually based on volume and labor, so get written quotes. (800) 614-8388 for help in the Kansas City area.
Before the cleanout: what to find first
- Important papers: wills, deeds, titles, insurance policies, tax returns, bank and investment statements, military discharge papers (DD-214).
- Valuables: jewelry, cash, coins, guns, collections.
- Keys, passwords and safe-deposit information.
- Photos, letters and family records.
- Medications, to dispose of safely.
Check the places people hide things: freezers, coat pockets, books, under drawers, in the garage.
The usual order
- Family takes what they want.
- An estate sale or consignment sells what has value.
- Charities pick up usable items.
- The cleanout crew removes everything else and sweeps out.
- A cleaning crew and any repairs get the house ready to list.
How cleanout companies price the job
Most price by volume (how much of a truck it fills), labor, and extras like heavy items, stairs, hazardous materials or a hoarding situation. Some offer an estate sale and cleanout together. Get at least two written quotes after an in-person or video walk-through. See estate cleanout costs.
Choosing a cleanout company
- Ask what they donate, recycle and send to the landfill.
- Ask whether they're insured, and get it in writing.
- Ask for a written quote and what could change it.
- Ask whether they'll set aside papers or photos they find.
- Ask whether they buy items, and how that affects the price.
When it's more than a cleanout
If the home has hoarding, pests, mold or biohazards, look for a company that specializes in those jobs. For safety, don't try to clear it alone.
Need the house emptied?
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Questions families ask
What is the difference between an estate sale and an estate cleanout?
An estate sale sells items of value. A cleanout removes whatever is left. Many families do both, in that order.
How long does an estate cleanout take?
Often one to a few days for the crew, depending on the size of the house and how full it is.
Do cleanout companies donate items?
Many do. Ask what they donate and whether you can get a donation receipt.
Should we clean out the house before selling?
Usually yes. An empty, clean house is easier to show and sell. Talk with your real estate agent.