Signs of Hoarding
How do you know if someone has a hoarding problem? Here are the warning signs to look for.
Warning Signs
Can't throw things away
Gets really upset at the idea of discarding things—even stuff that seems worthless
Rooms you can't use
Bedrooms, kitchens, or living areas buried in stuff to the point they're unusable
Always bringing more stuff in
Can't pass up a sale, free stuff, or "deals." Always finding something that might be useful
Never has people over
Stopped inviting family or friends because of embarrassment about the house
Treats objects like they have feelings
Strong emotional attachment to things that most people would consider ordinary
Doesn't see it as a problem
Doesn't recognize how bad it's gotten. Genuinely doesn't see the clutter the same way
No organization system
Things piled everywhere with no rhyme or reason. Can't find stuff when needed
Worried about running out
Keeps things "just in case" and gets anxious about not having enough of something
Hoarding vs. Collecting
Lots of people collect things. That's normal. Here's how you can tell the difference between a collector and a hoarder.
Collecting (Normal)
- Stuff is organized and displayed nicely
- They're proud of their collection
- The house still works like a house
- They'll happily show you their stuff
- They're picky about what they add
- Could sell or give things away if needed
Hoarding (Problem)
- Stuff is piled everywhere, no organization
- The accumulation causes stress, not joy
- Rooms can't be used anymore
- They're ashamed and won't let people in
- Can't say no to free stuff or sales
- Gets really upset about throwing anything away
How Bad Is It? The 5 Levels
Professionals use a scale to figure out how severe hoarding is. This helps decide what kind of help is needed.
Level 1 - Mild
Some clutter but you can still get around. No smells or hygiene problems.
Level 2 - Moderate
One room pretty much unusable. Maybe some smells. Cleaning has been neglected.
Level 3 - Significant
Multiple rooms unusable. Stuff visible outside the house. Maybe some pests.
Level 4 - Severe
Structural damage, hazardous stuff, bad ventilation, pet waste, or bug infestations.
Level 5 - Extreme
No working utilities, human or animal waste, major structural damage, fire hazards.
When Should You Get Help?
It's probably time to bring in professionals if:
- Rooms can't be used for what they're meant for
- There are safety problems—fire hazards, blocked exits, tripping risks
- Neighbors or the landlord are complaining
- Health is being affected by the living conditions
- Relationships are suffering because of the hoarding
- There's an eviction notice or code violation
- Need to sell or move and the house isn't ready
The sooner you deal with it, the easier it is. Don't wait until it's an emergency. There's no shame in asking for help.
What is Hoarding?
Learn what hoarding is and why it happens.
How to Help Someone Who Hoards
What to do (and what not to do) when a loved one hoards.
Seeing These Signs? We Can Help.
We do hoarding cleanups in Boise and the Treasure Valley. Free estimates. No judgment.
(208) 361-1982