Sewage Backups: What To Do

Rachael Eslao • August 17, 2022

Sewage Backups: What To Do

-Gainesville, VA

In the event of a backed-up sewer system, there may not be as much damage to your house as a fire or tornado, but there will still be significant property damage and sanitary issues.

 

In order to avoid further damage, it is important to deal with the sewage backup quickly. The best way to handle a sewage spill at home is by evacuating your entire family, turning off the water, and calling a plumber or cleanup specialist to assist you. You may be able to limit damage, salvage items, or take care of the issue yourself, depending on how serious the situation is. Septic system cleanup is both time-consuming and dangerous, so save yourself the hassle and hire a professional company to handle the job. 

 

Resolving Sewage Backups

No matter whether you hire a professional service or do your own sewage cleaning, these precautions should be followed:

  • You should evacuate all pets, children, and the elderly until the zone is safe to enter.
  • You can shut off the water and power yourself if the spill is small and you won't be in danger (as long as the main water valve and the power distribution panel are not submerged!) - just wear protective gear. It may be necessary to tell your utilities to turn off both the water and power in your home until the problem is resolved if the situation poses a danger to you. 
  • You may want to open the windows to allow ventilation after cleaning the area.
  • Remove all dry and uncontaminated items. 
  • Add a drop or two of chlorine bleach to the standing water - this will ensure some disinfection and help prevent bacteria from spreading. 
  • Notify your insurance company if you experience a sewage backup. Before the cleanup is completed, you will need to take several pictures of the damage and spill (for an insurance claim).
  • You should not attempt to clear clogged drains at this point - once we remove the sewage water, we can address the underlying problem.


Get Professional Help

Cleaning companies for sewage backups are generally hired when:

  • The sewage backup at your house is not confined to one room. 
  • Bacteria can grow and pose a serious health risk if sewage backups sit for more than 24 hours, making cleanup too difficult. 
  • Your sewer or septic tank is backed up.
  • Your a/c system may have been contaminated with sewage water, requiring professional duct cleaning.
  • Certain health concerns you or a member of your family may be aggravated by wastewater.


A long period of sitting contaminated water in your home can lead to sickness or damage to your home. 

 

With our experts, you can count on a swift and efficient response. All of these issues can be avoided with sewage cleanup services. Expert technicians use high-quality products, sanitary equipment, and cleaning products. 

 

In some cases, sewage cleanup can cost $2,000-$10,000 depending on the severity and size of the spill. The services that sewage cleanup professionals provide include extracting water, cleaning content, and removing odors. 

 

Having experienced professionals intervene quickly, efficiently, and safely can save you time and effort. Our team at Anthony Restoration Gainesville will quickly restore your home to its original condition, preventing further damage and allowing you to resume your regular life. 

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