Hoarding Task Force

Arlington County set up the Hoarding Task Force in 2003 to facilitate agency collaboration on the most complex hoarding cases the County responds to each year. Staff works to protect the community from the dangers associated with hoarding, while still observing an individual’s right to privacy.

The Hoarding Task Force is made up of staff from the Arlington County Fire Department (ACFD), Code Enforcement, and the Department of Human Services (DHS). Employees from other departments, such as the police department, may also get involved in certain cases.

Concerned residents should contact an agency depending on needed resources. In the event of a medical emergency, call 911. ACFD responds when there’s a fire hazard, Code Enforcement responds when there’s a suspected building code violation and DHS gets involved if the resident needs assistance due to physical or mental health issues or financial limitations.

If you are concerned about a potential hoarding situation, make a confidential call to one of the following:

• Office of the Fire Marshal through the Office of Emergency Management – 703-558-2222
• Code Enforcement – 703-228-3232
• Adult Protective Services through the Department of Human Services – 703-228-1700