Water Damage from Sewage Backups: Risks and Cleanup

6/19/2024 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO®, we understand the distress that water damage can bring to homeowners and businesses alike. While any water intrusion is concerning, sewage backups pose unique risks and challenges that require immediate attention and specialized cleanup procedures. In this blog post, we'll delve into the dangers associated with sewage backups and offer essential tips for effective cleanup.

Understanding the Risks

Sewage backups occur when the sewage system becomes overloaded or blocked, causing wastewater to flow back into your property. This wastewater, often referred to as "black water," contains a mixture of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and other harmful pathogens. 

Sewage backups can cause extensive property damage. The contaminated water can permeate porous materials such as carpets, drywall, and upholstery, leading to structural damage and promoting mold growth if not addressed promptly.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upon discovering a sewage backup, it's crucial to take immediate action to minimize the damage and ensure the safety of occupants. Here are the steps to follow:

• Ensure Safety: Avoid contact with the contaminated water and turn off the electrical supply to the affected area to prevent the risk of electrocution.
• Evacuate the Area: If sewage has flooded large areas of your property, consider evacuating until professionals arrive to assess the situation.
• Contact Professionals: Call SERVPRO immediately to dispatch our highly trained technicians equipped with the necessary expertise and specialized equipment to handle sewage cleanup safely and effectively.

Professional Cleanup Procedures

Our certified technicians follow a thorough cleanup process to restore your property to its pre-damage condition:

• Assessment: We conduct a comprehensive inspection to assess the extent of the damage and develop a tailored restoration plan.
• Water Extraction: Using powerful pumps and extraction equipment, we remove standing water from the affected areas.
• Disinfection: We thoroughly disinfect and sanitize all surfaces to eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens.
• Drying and Dehumidification: We employ advanced drying techniques to remove excess moisture from the air and structural materials, preventing mold growth.
• Restoration: Our team repairs and restores damaged structures and belongings, ensuring that your property is returned to a clean and safe condition.

Preventative Measures

To reduce the risk of sewage backups in the future, consider the following preventive measures:

• Regular inspection and maintenance of your sewage system, including checking for blockages and leaks.
• Proper disposal of household items, avoiding flushing non-biodegradable materials down the toilet.
• Installation of backwater valves to prevent sewage from flowing back into your property during heavy rains or floods.

In conclusion, sewage backups pose significant risks to property. By understanding these risks and taking swift action with professional cleanup services, you can mitigate damage and ensure a safe environment for your family or employees. Remember, when it comes to sewage cleanup, swift action is essential. Contact SERVPRO at the first sign of trouble for prompt and reliable assistance.