Sewage Backup and Contaminated Water

Backups usually come up through the lowest drains in the house: floor drains, tubs, showers and ground-floor toilets. The cause is typically a blockage or break in the sewer line, tree roots, or a municipal main that backs up during heavy rain.

This topic is part of our complete guide to water damage restoration. The articles for this topic are listed at the end of the page.

How sewage cleanup works

1. Safety first: power off in wet areas and protective gear for the crew.
2. Extraction of the water and solids.
3. Removal of carpet, pad, drywall and insulation the water reached.
4. Cleaning and disinfection of every remaining surface.
5. Drying and odor control, then rebuilding.

What not to do

• Don't run water, flush toilets or use the washer until the line is clear.
• Don't try to clean it with household bleach and a mop.
• Don't keep porous items like mattresses or upholstered furniture that were soaked.

Many homeowners policies only cover sewer backup if a backup endorsement was added. Check your policy, and see sewage cleanup for what we do on these jobs.