The short answer
Health Risks of Sewage
Sewage carries pathogens like E. Coli, hepatitis, and other microorganisms that can make you very sick. Direct contact with skin, or breathing in contaminated mist, can lead to infections or respiratory problems. Even if the water looks clean after a flush, the hidden bacteria remain on surfaces.
Your home's porous materials, such as drywall and wood, can absorb sewage and harbor these dangers for a long time. Unless you have professional-grade disinfectants and training, you cannot safely neutralize these hazards. The pros use specialized equipment and follow strict protocols to protect your health.
Protective Gear Needed
Cleaning sewage requires heavy-duty rubber gloves, waterproof boots, eye protection, and a respirator mask. Regular household gloves and cloth masks do not block the tiny particles that carry disease. Without the right gear, even a small spill can expose you to harm.
The pros use personal protective equipment that covers their entire body and prevents any contact with contaminated water. They also know how to remove and dispose of contaminated materials safely, reducing the risk of tracking bacteria through your home. This is why professional help is the safer choice.
- Wear rubber gloves and waterproof boots
- Use a respirator with HEPA filters
- Protect your eyes with goggles
- Avoid touching your face during cleanup
- Wash hands thoroughly after any contact
- Keep children and pets away from the area
Cleaning and Disinfecting
Proper sewage cleanup involves removing all contaminated water and solids, then disinfecting every affected surface with a hospital-grade sanitizer. You cannot simply mop up the mess and call it clean. The pros use industrial-strength disinfectants that kill the bacteria and viruses in sewage.
They also use air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out the area completely, because moisture left behind can lead to mold growth. In a humid climate, drying is especially important, and the pros know how to prevent secondary damage that often follows sewage backups.
When to Call the Pros
If the sewage backup is more than a small puddle, or if it has soaked into carpets, drywall, or furniture, you should call the pros right away. The longer sewage sits, the deeper it soaks into materials, making the cleanup more difficult and costly. Acting quickly reduces the risk to your health and your home.
Before the pros get to work, stay out of the room and close doors to contain the smell and bacteria. Turn off the water source if you can do so safely, and open windows for ventilation, but do not touch the sewage. The pros have the tools to extract water and disinfect thoroughly, so you do not have to risk your safety.
- Call the pros if the area is larger than a small spill
- If sewage soaked into carpets or drywall, get help
- Avoid walking through the contaminated area
- Shut off the water source if safe to do so
- Open windows to ventilate, but avoid direct contact
- Keep pets and kids out until the cleanup is done
Insurance and Costs
Sewage cleanup can be a major expense, depending on the extent of the damage and the materials affected. Costs often range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, but the final amount depends on the size of the area, the level of contamination, and how much needs to be removed and replaced.
Your homeowner's insurance may cover sewage backup damage, but policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see if sewage backup is included, and document the damage with photos before any cleanup begins. That documentation can help with your claim, but you should not expect coverage without reading the fine print.
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Call Now (214) 730-5993Frequently asked questions
Can I clean up a small sewage spill myself?
Even a small spill is risky because sewage contains harmful germs. If you decide to clean it, wear rubber gloves, boots, and a mask, and use a disinfectant labeled for sewage. But for safety, call the pros, especially if the spill has soaked into any porous surface.
How long does sewage cleanup take?
The time depends on how much water and contaminated material is involved. A minor spill might take a few hours, while a major backup that soaked into walls and floors can take days. The pros will need to dry and disinfect the area completely before it is safe to use again.
What should I do before the pros get to work?
Stay away from the affected area and keep children and pets out. Turn off the water supply if you can do so without touching sewage, and open windows for ventilation. Do not attempt to clean or mop up the sewage yourself, as that can spread contamination.