Multi-unit buildings add complexity
An unattended death in an apartment or condominium affects more than one household. Decomposition fluids can pass through floor assemblies into the ceiling of the unit below. Odor travels through shared walls, plumbing chases, hallways and ventilation, so neighbors may notice it before anyone enters the unit. And several parties have a stake in the outcome: the property owner or association, the manager, the family or estate of the deceased, and nearby residents.
What's involved
- Coordination. We confirm who authorizes the work (usually the owner or manager), who represents the estate, and how personal property will be handled.
- Affected-unit assessment. Fluid paths through flooring and subfloor are traced, and furnishings, walls and HVAC are checked.
- Neighbor checks. The ceiling and walls of the unit below and adjacent units, and common areas, are checked for fluid or odor.
- Remediation. Saturated materials are removed, the structure is cleaned and treated, and an encapsulant is applied where appropriate.
- Odor elimination in the unit and, where needed, in common areas and shared ventilation.
- Personal property. Belongings are handled according to the estate's and owner's instructions, with recovery of documents and valuables.
- Documentation for the owner's records, insurance and the estate.
For property managers
You need the unit safe and leasable, neighbors reassured and costs documented. We provide a clear written scope for owner approval, a timeline, and unit-level completion records you can share with owners and insurers. If the unit below is affected, we document it separately.
For families
If your loved one rented the apartment, the landlord typically controls access to the unit. Your rights regarding belongings depend on the lease, the estate process and state law. We can work with both you and management so important personal items are recovered and treated with care.
Notifying neighbors
Neighbors may already know something happened. Management should decide what to communicate. We keep project details confidential and don't discuss the circumstances with residents.
Common questions
Who pays when a tenant dies in a unit?
It depends on the lease, insurance policies and the estate. The owner often arranges the cleanup and then pursues reimbursement through insurance or the estate as appropriate. Ask your attorney or insurer for guidance.
Can the unit below stay occupied?
Often, yes, if no fluid has reached it. If staining or odor appears in its ceiling, that area needs to be assessed and possibly opened up.