The short answer
Health Risks in Raw Sewage
Raw sewage carries pathogens that can make you sick. E. Coli, hepatitis A, and norovirus are common in sewage. Contact with skin, or breathing in contaminated mist, can lead to infections, stomach problems, or respiratory issues. Children and pets are especially vulnerable because they may touch contaminated surfaces.
Sewage also releases gases such as hydrogen sulfide, methane, and ammonia. These gases can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, or even loss of consciousness in poorly ventilated spaces. The longer sewage sits, the more hazardous the air becomes. You should leave the area immediately if you notice a strong rotten-egg smell.
- Wear rubber boots and gloves if you must enter the area
- Open windows and doors to ventilate before doing anything
- Keep children and pets away from the affected zone
- Wash any exposed skin with soap and clean water right away
- See a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure
Why You Should Not DIY Sewage Cleanup
Cleaning sewage involves more than mopping up water. Porous materials like drywall, carpet, and wood absorb sewage and must be removed. Without proper training, you might miss hidden contamination that continues to release harmful germs and odors. The pros use industrial-grade disinfectants and drying equipment that you likely do not have.
The pros also wear full protective suits, respirators, and eye protection. They know how to handle contaminated waste and dispose of it according to local rules. Trying to save money by doing it yourself can lead to long-term health problems and more damage to your home. In many cases, professional cleanup is the safer choice.
What the Pros Do During Sewage Cleanup
The pros start by removing standing water and solid waste using pumps and wet vacuums. They then discard any porous items that cannot be fully cleaned. After that, they scrub all hard surfaces with antimicrobial cleaners. The goal is to eliminate germs and prevent mold from growing.
Next, the pros dry the area thoroughly using air movers and dehumidifiers. They may also apply an antimicrobial treatment to prevent future growth. Finally, they check for lingering odors and treat the source. This process can take several days, depending on the extent of the backup.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Remove all standing water and solid waste
- Discard porous materials like carpet and drywall
- Clean and disinfect all hard surfaces
- Dry the area completely to prevent mold
- Treat odors at the source
How to Protect Your Home from Sewage Backup
Sewage backups often happen after heavy rain or when tree roots clog the sewer line. You can reduce the risk by keeping your plumbing clear. Avoid flushing items like wipes, grease, or paper towels, since these cause clogs. Have a plumber inspect your sewer line periodically.
If you live in Rowlett, keep your shutoff valve location written down. Knowing where the valve is can help you stop a backup quickly. Also, consider installing a backwater valve if your home is prone to flooding. This device prevents sewage from flowing back into your house.
The humid subtropical climate in Rowlett brings spring hail and thunderstorms, which can overload sewers.
When to Call the Pros for Sewage Cleanup
If sewage backs up into your home, act quickly. The longer sewage sits, the more damage it causes and the higher the health risk. Turn off the water to stop the flow, and keep everyone out of the affected rooms. Do not try to clean it yourself.
Contact local water damage pros right away. They can assess the situation and begin the cleanup process. You should also check your insurance policy to see what is covered. The pros can handle the cleanup, but you will need to communicate with your insurance company about any claims.
- If sewage is actively flowing, shut off the water supply
- Evacuate the area and avoid touching anything
- Call the pros as soon as you can
- Document the damage with photos for your insurance records
- Do not use fans or vacuums that could spread contaminated mist
Talk to someone now
Call (214) 730-5993 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (214) 730-5993Frequently asked questions
Can sewage backup make you sick?
Yes, sewage contains harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause infections, stomach illness, and breathing problems. Even brief contact can be risky, especially for children, the elderly, or anyone with a weakened immune system. Seek medical help if you feel unwell after exposure.
How long does sewage cleanup take?
The time depends on the extent of the backup and the materials affected. A small overflow might take a day, while a large backup that soaked walls and floors could take several days. The pros will work until the area is clean, dry, and safe.
Will my insurance cover sewage cleanup?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Some policies include sewage backup coverage, but others do not. Check your policy documents or contact your insurance company to understand your specific coverage. The pros can clean up, but they do not handle insurance claims.