Sewage Backup Cleanup: What to Do for Your Home or Business

Sewage backups are more than just a nasty mess—they're a serious health hazard that can cause significant damage to your property. Whether it happens in a residential home or a commercial building, knowing what to do immediately can prevent costly repairs and keep your family or employees safe.

At Advanced Restoration, we specialize in fast, professional sewage cleanup and restoration. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you experience a sewage backup.

1. Recognize the Signs of a Sewage Backup

A sewage backup isn’t always obvious at first. Be on the lookout for these early warning signs:

• Foul odors coming from drains

• Gurgling toilets or drains

• Water backing up in showers, tubs, or sinks

• Slow-draining fixtures throughout the property

Catching these symptoms early can help prevent a complete backup.

2. Stop Using Water Immediately

If you suspect or confirm a sewage backup:

• Stop running water in the home or building (no flushing toilets, running dishwashers, washing machines, or sinks).

• Turn off the main water supply if the problem appears severe or continues to escalate.

Continuing to use water can worsen the problem by adding more waste to an already blocked system.

3. Evacuate the Affected Area

Sewage water contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can pose serious health risks. Avoid direct contact and remove children, pets, and vulnerable individuals from the contaminated area.

Do not attempt to clean up sewage without proper protection.

4. Turn Off Power If Safe

If water levels are rising near electrical outlets or appliances:

• Shut off power to the affected area at your breaker box, only if it is safe to do so.

• Never step into standing water that could be in contact with live electricity.

5. Call a Professional Sewage Cleanup Company

Cleaning up sewage backup requires specialized equipment and training. At Advanced Restoration, our certified technicians provide:

• 24/7 emergency response

• Safe and thorough extraction of contaminated water

• Sanitization and disinfection of all affected areas

• Odor removal and air purification

• Drying and dehumidification services

• Structural repair and restoration

We also assist with insurance claims to make the process as smooth as possible.

6. Notify Your Insurance Provider

As soon as it’s safe, contact your insurance company to report the incident. Take photos and videos of the damage for documentation. Most homeowner and commercial property policies cover sewage backups, however, limits may apply.

7. Prevent Future Sewage Backups

After cleanup and restoration, take these proactive steps to reduce the risk of future backups:

• Install a backflow prevention device or sewer backup valve : This device prevents sewage from flowing back into your home during heavy rains or system overloads.

• Avoid flushing inappropriate items: Never flush grease, wipes, feminine hygiene products, or paper towels.

• Schedule regular plumbing inspections: A professional can detect blockages or tree root intrusions before they become major problems.

• Upgrade older pipes: Outdated systems are more prone to failure.

Why Choose Advanced Restoration for Sewage Backup Cleanup?

At Advanced Restoration, we understand that sewage emergencies are stressful and urgent. That’s why we’re committed to:

✅ Fast response times

✅ Certified and insured technicians

✅ Advanced cleaning technology

✅ Transparent communication and support

We restore your property and peace of mind.