Sewage Backup Causes and Effects What Happens When Sewer Backs Up in House

Experiencing a sewage backup in your house can be a distressing event, leading to unpleasant odors, health hazards, and property damage.

Causes of Sewage Backups

Clogged Drains: Grease, hair, food scraps, and other debris can accumulate in drains, causing blockages that prevent wastewater from flowing properly.
Damaged Sewer Lines: Corrosion, tree roots, and shifting soil can damage underground sewer lines, creating cracks or breaks that allow sewage to leak into your home.
Heavy Rainfall: Excessive rainfall can overwhelm the sewer system, causing sewage to back up into houses connected to it.
Faulty Plumbing: Improperly installed or maintained plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, and pipes, can result in leaks or blockages leading to sewage backups.

Health Hazards: Sewage contains bacteria and pathogens that can pose serious health risks if exposed. Breathing in contaminated air or coming into contact with sewage can cause illnesses such as gastroenteritis, respiratory infections, and skin irritations.
Unpleasant Odors: Sewage backups release foul odors that can permeate your home, making it uncomfortable to occupy.
Structural Damage: Sewage can damage building materials, including flooring, drywall, and furniture, if not promptly addressed.
Property Value Decline: A sewage backup can negatively impact the value of your property as potential buyers may be discouraged by the risk of future backups or the associated health hazards.

Safety First: Evacuate your home and avoid contact with sewage. Wear protective clothing, such as gloves and a mask, if you must enter affected areas.
Call for Professional Help: Contact a reputable Sewage Cleanup Service immediately. Trained professionals have the expertise and equipment to safely remove sewage and disinfect your home.
Prevent Further Damage: While waiting for professional assistance, try to prevent further damage by shutting off the main water supply and electricity to the affected area.
Document the Damage: Take photos or videos of the affected areas to document the extent of the damage for insurance purposes.
Seek Medical Attention: If you experience any symptoms of illness after exposure to sewage, seek medical attention as soon as possible.