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In the New Zealand restoration industry, hoarding is an increasingly common challenge—one that demands far more than just elbow grease…

From health hazards and structural damage to emotionally complex environments, hoarding clean-ups require specialised knowledge, careful planning, and the right training.

This guide is designed for restoration professionals, offering practical advice, best practices, and local insights to help you manage hoarding-related restoration work effectively and safely.

What You’re Really Walking Into

Hoarding isn’t just clutter. It’s recognised as a compulsive disorder, often linked to trauma, anxiety, or mental illness. The homes of hoarders may contain:

  • Biohazards (mould, bacteria, human/animal waste)
  • Fire and structural risks (blocked exits, overloaded power boards, rotten flooring)
  • Pests (rodents, cockroaches, flies)
  • Severe odour and air quality issues
  • Hidden water damage and mould growth

As a restoration contractor, you’ll likely be called in after emergency events like fire, water damage, or as part of housing compliance enforcement. Understanding the environment you’re entering is crucial for safety and success.

NZ Restoration Response: Understanding the Levels of Hoarding

Adapted from international best practices, here’s a five-tier guide to the severity levels you may encounter:

Level 1–2: Low Risk / Surface Clean

???? Recommended Equipment: Air scrubbers, odour neutralisers, fogging

Level 3: Moderate Risk / Health Hazard

  • Food waste, blocked rooms, foul odours, vermin activity
  • Appliances unusable, fire hazards present

???? Recommended Response: Full PPE, containment zones, pest control, microbial surface treatment

Level 4–5: Severe Risk / Environmental Hazards

  • Rotten flooring, biohazards, extreme mould, human waste, structural damage
  • Serious threat to safety and compliance

???? Recommended Approach:

  • AMRT-qualified team (IICRC Applied Microbial Remediation Technician)
  • Negative air pressure systems
  • Mould remediation protocols
  • Decontamination and disposal in accordance with council regulations
Best Practice Approach for NZ Technicians

1.  Site Assessment & Scope

    • Conduct a thorough pre-inspection using moisture meters, thermal imaging, and air sampling if required
    • Identify safety issues—notify clients or property managers immediately

2. Plan for Safety First

    • Full PPE (gloves, eye protection, P2/N95 respirators or PAPRs for severe jobs eg: Shigematsu range)
    • Look out for needle hazards, unstable stacks, or vermin
    • Develop a clear exit strategy for your team

3. Structure the Clean-Up Process

    • Segment the job: one room or zone at a time
    • Use labelled bins: “Keep”, “Dispose”, “Hazardous”
    • Prepare for contents removal, decontamination, drying, and restoration

4. Work with Empathy

    • Often you’re dealing with trauma. Be professional but sensitive.
    • When necessary, liaise with health services, social workers, or tenancy support agencies

5. Follow Through

    • Once cleaned, treat surfaces for microbial contamination
    • Dry affected structural materials thoroughly
    • Document before/after stages for insurance and compliance
Local Regulations to Be Aware Of
Equip Your Team for This Work

When restoration technicians are called to hoarding sites, it’s often because no one else can safely do the job. With the right knowledge, training, and approach—you can make a real difference. Protect your crew, meet your obligations, and elevate your service standards with confidence.

Jobs involving hoarding conditions are rarely straightforward. Equip your crew with the training and certification they need to safely and confidently respond.

Cleaning Systems offers the following IICRC and specialist training courses in New Zealand. These courses prepare your team to respond to the real-world challenges of hoarding, mould infestations, odour remediation, and post-disaster restoration.

(click images for course details)