What is hoarding and why is it a problem?

5/27/2019 (Permalink)

Hoarding can create debilitating property damage.

You’ve seen it on TV, but the truth around this disorder is that it is a harsh reality for a lot of affected individuals.  Hoarding spawns from Obsessive Compulsive and Anxiety disorders, creating a debilitating act of having to hold onto or keep items most people would see as trash.  These items could include newspapers, old food containers, old clothing, photographs, food or even animals.  

Most often, this can lead to dangerous and harmful living situations for the hoarder and anyone who may come in contact with their residence.  These items can create piles and piles of debris that can make it often impossible to walk freely within the home, making the homeowner at risk for injuries.  Old food and containers can cause an increase in unsafe pathogens and toxins that can affect quality of life.  The piles of items can also make a breeding ground for unwanted pests.  

Unfortunately, most situations do not get resolved during the individuals’ lifetime and relatives or landlords can inherit the problems that their family members or tenants have left.  Our trained technicians can work with you on cleaning up what can feel like a lifetime of debris and restore the home to its original condition. 

For more information on hoarding or getting help for yourself or a family member, visit the Anxiety and Depression Association of America website.