What Happens When Sewer Backs Up in a House?

Sewage backups can be an unpleasant and potentially hazardous situation. It can cause extensive damage to your home and belongings, and it can also pose a health risk to your family. If you experience a sewage backup, it’s important to act quickly to minimize the damage and ensure the safety of your family.

Causes of Sewage Backups

There are many potential causes of sewage backups, including:

• Clogged pipes: Grease, hair, and other debris can build up in your pipes over time, causing them to become clogged. This can lead to a backup of sewage into your home.
• Tree roots: Tree roots can grow into your sewer lines and cause blockages. This is especially common in older homes with clay or cast iron sewer lines.
• Damaged pipes: Pipes can be damaged by a variety of factors, including freezing, corrosion, and ground movement. This can create cracks or holes in the pipes, allowing sewage to leak out.
• Overloaded sewer systems: During heavy rains or snowmelt, the sewer system can become overloaded, causing sewage to back up into homes.

Effects of Sewage Backups

Sewage backups can have a number of negative effects, including:

• Property damage: Sewage can damage carpets, furniture, and other belongings. It can also cause structural damage to your home.
• Health risks: Sewage contains bacteria and other harmful pathogens that can cause illness. If you come into contact with sewage, it’s important to wash your hands thoroughly and disinfect any surfaces that have been contaminated.
• Unpleasant odors: Sewage backups can create unpleasant odors that can linger for days or even weeks.

What to Do If You Experience a Sewage Backup

If you experience a sewage backup, it’s important to act quickly to minimize the damage and ensure the safety of your family. Here’s what you should do:

• Call a plumber: A qualified plumber can diagnose the cause of the backup and repair it. They can also clean up the sewage and disinfect your home.
• Turn off the water: Turn off the water supply to your home to prevent more sewage from backing up. This is usually done by turning off the main water valve.
• Open windows and doors: Ventilate your home to remove any unpleasant odors.
• Contact your insurance company: Your insurance company may cover the cost of cleanup and repairs.