If sewage backs up into your home, stop all water use right away, keep people and pets out of the affected area, steer clear of anything electrical that is wet, and take photos before touching anything. Then have the drain line cleared before you start the cleanup.
Turn Off the Taps Everywhere
The backup happened because waste cannot get past a blockage. Every flush, shower, and dishwasher cycle sends more water toward that blockage, and it comes back up through the lowest drain. Tell everyone in the household, and if you share a building, let the super know immediately.
Treat It as a Health Hazard
Sewage can carry bacteria and viruses that make people sick. If you need to enter the area, wear rubber boots and waterproof gloves, and wash thoroughly afterward. Keep food, toys, and clean laundry away from the water. Do not run fans that blow contaminated air around until the area has been cleaned.
Keep a Record
Photos and short videos of the water level, the drain it came from, and damaged belongings help with insurance. Call your insurer early, since many policies treat sewer backups under separate coverage. If you think the city sewer caused it, you can also report it through 311.
Clean Up in the Right Order
Once the line is open:
- Remove standing water and solid waste
- Bag and discard soaked carpet, cardboard, and upholstery
- Wash hard surfaces with detergent, then disinfect
- Dry the space completely to prevent mold
Drywall that wicked up sewage usually needs to be cut out. Large backups may call for a professional cleanup crew.
To stop it from happening again, a plumber can remove the blockage and look for the underlying problem. After cleanup, having other fixtures and drains checked can confirm nothing else was affected. Call JPR Plumbing at (833) 603-1840.