The 5 levels to hoarding:

Level 1 – Very minor clutter that causes no issues with functionality or emotional negative affects. 

Level 2 – Typically horizontal surfaces are covered, including countertops, tables, desks, etc. but the home is still usable and there is open floor space.

Level 3 – Horizontal surfaces overly filled, the perimeters of rooms start filling as well, encroaching on the living spaces.

Level 4 – Floors are starting to fill up and functionality is almost non existent. There is limited access to many parts of the home.

Level 5 – Severe hoarding where rooms are not able to be entered; ingress and egress can be completely blocked, there are rodent and insect infestations; potential structural hazards and fire dangers present; odors are typically very strong and neighbors may be complaining

Common types of hoarding:
• ANIMAL HOARDING
• BIBLIOMANIA (HOARDING OF BOOKS) / INFORMATION HOARDER
• SYLLOGOMANIA (HOARDING OF TRASH/GARBAGE)
• LARDER HOARDING (HOARDING OF FOOD)
• RECYCLERS
• COLLECTORS
• SHOPAHOLICS
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What is hoarding disorder?
Hoarding disorder is a mental health condition in which a person feels a strong need to save a large number of items, whether they have monetary value or not, and experiences significant distress when attempting to get rid of the items. The hoarding impairs their daily life.
Typical hoarded items include newspapers, magazines, household goods and clothing. Sometimes, people with hoarding disorder accumulate a large number of animals, which are often not properly cared for.
Hoarding disorder can lead to dangerous clutter. The condition can interfere with your quality of life in many ways. It can cause people stress and shame in their social, family and work lives. It can also create unhealthy and unsafe living conditions. - Cleveland Clinic