The short answer
What Causes Sewage Backup
Sewage backup happens when the main sewer line or your home's drain pipes become blocked or overwhelmed. Common causes include tree roots growing into pipes, grease buildup, flushing items that should not go down the drain, and heavy rain that floods the municipal system. In a humid subtropical climate, spring thunderstorms can strain local sewers.
When the wastewater cannot flow away, it rises through the lowest drains in your home, such as toilets, sinks, or floor drains. The result is raw sewage entering your living space. Knowing the likely causes helps you take preventive steps, like watching what goes down your drains and keeping your plumbing clear.
- Tree roots invading underground pipes
- Grease and oil solidifying in drains
- Flushing wipes, paper towels, or feminine products
- Heavy rain overwhelming the sewer system
- Collapsed or misaligned pipes
- Improper disposal of food scraps or chemicals
Health Risks of Raw Sewage
Raw sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can make you sick. Contact with contaminated water or surfaces can cause gastrointestinal illness, skin infections, or respiratory issues. Children, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems face higher risks.
If you feel unwell after exposure, see a doctor. Do not wade through sewage without protection. Wear rubber boots, gloves, and a mask if you must enter the area. Open windows for ventilation, but avoid turning on fans that might spread contaminated air.
Immediate Steps After a Backup
Act quickly to limit damage and health risks. Stop using water in your home, including flushing toilets or running sinks, because that adds more sewage to the mess. Turn off the main water valve if you can safely do so. Keep children and pets away from the affected area.
Remove any items that can be saved, but do not touch sewage with bare hands. Take photos for your insurance records, but do not start cleaning until you understand the scope. If the backup is from the municipal system, your local utility may need to address the blockage.
- Turn off the water supply to your home
- Avoid flushing toilets or running faucets
- Keep kids and pets out of the area
- Put on protective gear before entering
- Document the damage with photos
- Note the time and date of the backup
How Professionals Handle Cleanup
Cleaning up sewage is not a do-it-yourself job. The pros use specialized equipment to extract contaminated water and remove affected materials like drywall, carpet, and flooring. They also disinfect the area thoroughly to reduce health hazards.
The work often involves structural drying and dehumidification to prevent mold growth. Depending on the severity, the pros may need to remove and replace drywall or flooring. The goal is to restore your home to a safe and livable condition, but the process takes time and careful attention.
Prevention and Insurance Notes
You can reduce the risk of future backups by keeping drains clear of grease, hair, and debris. Consider installing a backwater valve, which prevents sewage from flowing back into your home. If you live in Rowlett, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can act fast in an emergency.
Your insurance policy may or may not cover sewage backup damage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to understand your coverage before a problem occurs. If you have questions, contact your insurance company directly.
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Call Now (214) 730-5993Frequently asked questions
How long does sewage backup cleanup take?
The time depends on the extent of the damage and the size of the affected area. Simple cleanups might take a day, while larger jobs with structural drying and repairs can take several days. The pros will assess the situation and give you a realistic timeline.
Can I clean up sewage myself?
It is not recommended. Raw sewage is a biohazard that requires proper protective equipment and disinfectants. Professional cleanup reduces the risk of illness and ensures contaminated materials are handled correctly. If you attempt it, wear heavy gloves, boots, and a mask, but know that thorough disinfection is difficult.
What should I throw away after a sewage backup?
Porous items like carpet, drywall, insulation, and upholstered furniture usually cannot be saved because they absorb sewage and bacteria. Non-porous items like glass or metal can be cleaned and disinfected. When in doubt, discard the item to protect your health.