The short answer
Why Sewage Is Dangerous
Raw sewage carries pathogens like E. Coli, hepatitis, and other germs that can make you sick. Even after the visible mess is gone, bacteria can linger on floors, walls, and personal items. Breathing in contaminated dust or touching affected surfaces without protection can lead to illness.
The longer sewage sits, the deeper it soaks into porous materials like drywall, carpet, and wood. That can cause odors, mold growth, and structural weakening over time. Acting quickly reduces the risk to your health and your home's condition.
What the Cleanup Involves
Cleanup starts by stopping the source of the backup, often by closing a shutoff valve or calling a plumber. Then, standing water and solid waste are removed carefully to avoid spreading contamination. Affected materials like carpet, padding, and soaked drywall are usually cut out and disposed of properly.
The next step is thorough cleaning and disinfecting of all hard surfaces, including walls, floors, and fixtures. Industrial-grade disinfectants are applied to kill germs. Finally, the area is dried with air movers and dehumidifiers to remove moisture and prevent mold.
For a full breakdown of the process, see the sewage backup cleanup page.
- Remove standing water and solid waste
- Dispose of contaminated porous materials
- Clean and disinfect all hard surfaces
- Dry the area completely
- Treat odors at the source
- Inspect for structural or mold damage
When to Call the Pros
If the backup affects a large area, involves hot water, or has soaked into walls or floors, professional help is wise. The pros have industrial-grade equipment and disinfectants that are not available to most homeowners. They also know how to handle hazardous waste safely.
You should also call the pros if you have health concerns, such as asthma or a weakened immune system. Sewage cleanup is physically demanding and risky without proper training. Local water damage pros can assess the situation and explain what the work usually involves.
Safety Tips for Homeowners
If sewage overflows in your home, keep children and pets away from the area. Turn off the electricity in the affected rooms if it is safe to do so, and avoid touching sewage with bare skin. Wear rubber gloves, boots, and a mask if you need to be nearby.
Open windows to ventilate the space, but avoid using fans that might spread contaminated dust. Do not flush toilets or run water if the backup is ongoing. See a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure.
Preventing Future Backups
Many sewage backups happen because of clogged pipes, tree roots, or heavy rain overwhelming the system. Have a plumber inspect your main drain line regularly, and avoid flushing items like wipes, diapers, or grease. Keep the location of your shutoff valve written down so you can act quickly in an emergency.
Heavy rain can stress sewer systems in many areas, especially during spring storms. Consider installing a backwater valve if your home is prone to backups. Check with your insurance company about coverage for sewage damage.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Rowlett and nearby communities.
Call Now (214) 730-5993Frequently asked questions
Can I clean up sewage myself?
Small, contained spills might be manageable with proper safety gear and disinfectants. But for large areas or porous materials, professional help is safer. The pros have the right equipment and know how to handle hazardous waste.
How long does sewage cleanup take?
The time depends on the extent of the damage and the drying process. A small bathroom backup might take a day, while a larger area could take several days. Drying alone can take 48 hours or more, depending on humidity and airflow.
Is sewage damage covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by policy. Some homeowners policies include sewage backup, but others require a separate rider. Check your policy documents or talk to your insurance company to understand what is covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.