The short answer
What Makes Sewage Hazardous
Sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause serious illness. It can also release toxic gases like hydrogen sulfide, which is dangerous in enclosed spaces. The longer sewage sits, the more it soaks into porous materials like drywall, wood, and carpet, making the contamination harder to remove.
Even after the visible mess is gone, harmful organisms can remain on surfaces. That is why sewage restoration is not a simple cleanup. It involves removing contaminated materials, cleaning and disinfecting everything, and drying the area to prevent mold growth. The pros use specialized equipment and personal protective gear to handle these risks.
Protecting Yourself Before the Pros Start
If sewage has flooded part of your home, keep everyone and pets away from the affected area. Open windows to improve ventilation, but avoid turning on fans that might spread contaminated air. Do not touch anything that has been in contact with sewage without gloves and a mask.
Turn off the water supply if you can do so safely, especially if the sewage came from a backed-up drain. Keep your shutoff valve location written down. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking near the affected area. See a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure.
- Keep children and pets away from the affected area
- Open windows for ventilation, but avoid fans that spread air
- Wear gloves and a mask if you must enter the space
- Turn off the water supply if you can do so safely
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke near the contaminated area
- See a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure
Why Professional Cleanup Matters
Professional sewage restoration involves more than just mopping up. The pros assess how far the contamination spread, remove water and sewage, and dispose of contaminated materials properly. They also use industrial-grade disinfectants and drying equipment to kill pathogens and prevent mold.
The work usually involves removing and replacing materials that cannot be saved, like soaked drywall or insulation. The pros also check for hidden moisture in walls and under floors. This thorough approach helps protect your home's structure and your family's health, but it takes time and careful work.
What to Expect During the Process
The restoration process typically starts with an inspection to determine the extent of damage. Then the pros remove standing water and sewage, which may involve pumping and extraction. After that, they clean and disinfect all affected surfaces, often using special solutions that are safe for your home but effective against pathogens.
Drying is a critical step. Industrial dehumidifiers and air movers help remove moisture from walls, floors, and other materials. The pros may also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent future mold growth. You may need to stay out of the affected area until the work is complete, depending on the severity.
Costs and Insurance Considerations
The cost of sewage restoration depends on the size of the affected area, the level of contamination, and how much material needs to be removed. It often ranges from several hundred to several thousand dollars, but the final cost depends on the specific situation and the condition of your home.
Your insurance policy may cover sewage damage, but that depends on the cause and your coverage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy and contact your insurance company to understand what is included. Keep records of the damage and any communication with your insurer.
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Call Now (214) 730-5993Frequently asked questions
Can I clean up sewage myself?
Cleaning sewage yourself is not recommended because of the health risks. Sewage contains pathogens that can cause illness, and improper cleanup can leave harmful residues. The pros have the right equipment and training to handle it safely. If you must enter the area, wear protective gear and ventilate the space.
How long does sewage restoration take?
The time depends on the extent of the damage. Small spills might be handled in a day or two, but larger floods can take several days or more. The pros need time to remove contaminated materials, disinfect, and dry the area thoroughly. Your home may need to be vacant during the process.
Will sewage damage affect my health?
Sewage can cause health problems if you are exposed to it, including infections and respiratory issues. The pros use protective gear and proper containment to minimize risk. After restoration, the area is disinfected and dried, which helps eliminate pathogens. If you feel unwell after exposure, see a doctor.