What to do after an unattended death in Los Angeles County
Finding that someone has died alone is shocking. These steps can help you through the first days.
Updated October 2026.
1. Call 911
If you discover someone who has died, or you believe someone has died inside a home, call 911. Don't move the person or disturb the area. Police and paramedics will respond.
2. The Medical Examiner
In Los Angeles County, deaths that are unattended, sudden or unexplained are reported to the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner, which determines whether to take jurisdiction. Families can contact the department to learn where their loved one is and what happens next, including release to a funeral home.
3. Secure the property
Once authorities leave, lock the property. If it's a rental, notify the landlord or property manager. Keep windows closed and HVAC off in the affected area to limit odor spreading, unless the cleanup provider advises otherwise.
4. Don't clean it yourself
Decomposition creates biological hazards and odors that soak into building materials. California treats trauma scene waste as medical waste that must be handled by a registered practitioner. It's also emotionally devastating work. Let specialists handle it.
5. Contact insurance
Call the homeowners, renters or landlord's insurance company to open a claim. See who pays for biohazard cleanup.
6. Arrange cleanup
A cleanup provider will assess the scene, give a written scope, remove affected materials, clean and disinfect, and treat odors. Tell them about any personal items you hope to save.
7. Take care of yourself
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) also supports people coping with grief or trauma, and LA County's Department of Mental Health has a 24/7 help line.