When the Police Leave: What Happens Next?

Guidance from National Crime Scene Cleanup

When law enforcement completes an investigation and releases a property, many families and property owners are left wondering what comes next.

The hours after a traumatic event can feel overwhelming. You may be dealing with grief, unanswered questions, insurance concerns, and uncertainty about when it’s safe to return to the property.

At National Crime Scene Cleanup, we’ve helped families, businesses, landlords, and property managers navigate these difficult moments with compassion and professionalism. This guide explains what typically happens after authorities leave and how to safely move forward.

If your property has been officially released and you need immediate assistance, our certified technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

24/7 Emergency Response: (844) 255-2461

What Does It Mean When a Property Is Released?

When law enforcement or the appropriate investigating agency releases a property, it generally means their investigative work at the location has been completed.

A released property does not necessarily mean the area is safe to occupy.

Depending on the circumstances, biological contamination or other hazards may still be present and require professional Crime Scene Cleanup before the property can safely return to normal use.

Step 1: Take a Moment Before Entering

It’s understandable to want to return inside immediately.

Before entering the property:

Confirm the scene has officially been released.
Follow any remaining instructions from law enforcement or the medical examiner.
Be aware that hazardous materials may still be present.
If possible, bring only essential individuals into the property.

If contamination is suspected, avoid entering affected areas until they have been professionally evaluated.

Step 2: Protect Your Family

Once the property has been released, your next priority is protecting everyone who may enter.

Until professional remediation has been completed:

Keep children away from affected rooms.
Prevent pets from entering contaminated areas.
Restrict unnecessary access.
Avoid touching blood, bodily fluids, or damaged materials.

Step 3: Don’t Attempt Cleanup Yourself

Many people assume that once investigators leave, they should begin cleaning immediately.

However, household cleaners are not intended for professional Biohazard Cleanup involving bloodborne pathogens or other potentially infectious materials.

Professional remediation may include:

Site assessment
Cleaning and disinfection
Blood Cleanup
Removal of contaminated materials
Odor Removal
Safe disposal of regulated biohazardous waste

Attempting cleanup without proper training or protective equipment can increase health risks and may spread contamination to other areas of the property.

Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Provider

Many homeowners, renters, condominium, and commercial insurance policies may provide coverage for professional biohazard remediation, depending on the policy and circumstances.

National Crime Scene Cleanup regularly works with insurance providers and can often assist with documentation needed during the claims process.

Learn more in our Insurance Resource Center.

Step 5: Arrange Professional Cleanup

Once the property has been released, professional remediation can begin.

National Crime Scene Cleanup provides:

Every cleanup is performed with professionalism, discretion, and respect for the individuals, families, and communities we serve.

What to Expect During Cleanup

Although every situation is different, professional remediation generally follows a structured process.

Initial Assessment

Our technicians evaluate the affected areas and determine the safest remediation plan.

Containment

If needed, work areas are isolated to help prevent cross-contamination.

Removal of Contaminated Materials

Materials that cannot be safely restored are removed and handled according to applicable regulations.

Cleaning and Disinfection

Affected surfaces are cleaned using specialized products and equipment designed for professional biohazard remediation.

Odor Treatment

When necessary, advanced deodorization methods are used to help restore indoor air quality.

Final Inspection

Before work is complete, the property is inspected to verify that remediation has been completed according to industry procedures.

Every Situation Is Different

The steps following the release of a property can vary depending on the circumstances.

If your situation involves a specific type of incident, these resources may help:

Each guide explains what families and property owners commonly experience and how to prepare for the cleanup process. Take a look at our other emergency resources:

Frequently Asked Questions

Does ‘released’ mean the property is safe?

Not necessarily.

A property may be released from an investigative standpoint while still requiring professional remediation before it is safe to occupy.

Can I start cleaning immediately?

It’s generally best to avoid cleaning biological contamination yourself.

Professional Biohazard Cleanup helps address hazards that may not be visible and ensures contaminated materials are handled safely.

How quickly can cleanup begin?

Cleanup can usually begin after the property has been officially released by the appropriate authorities.

National Crime Scene Cleanup offers 24/7 emergency response and works to dispatch technicians as quickly as possible.

Can personal belongings be saved?

Many personal belongings can potentially be cleaned or restored, while others may require specialized treatment or disposal depending on the extent of contamination.

A professional assessment can help determine the most appropriate approach.

Will I need to leave the property?

It depends on the location and extent of contamination.

Some situations affect only one room, while others require more extensive remediation. Our technicians can help explain what to expect after evaluating the property.