What to Do When Your Home Is Affected by Sewage Backup

If you experience a sewage backup in your home, it is important to take immediate action to protect your health and your property. Here are some tips on what to do when your home is affected by sewage backup:

1. Do not try to clean up the mess yourself. Sewage can contain harmful bacteria that can cause serious illness. It is best to leave the cleanup to professionals who have the proper equipment and training.

2. Contact your insurance company. Many homeowner’s insurance policies cover sewage backup.

3. Call a plumber. A plumber can help you determine the cause of the backup and make any necessary repairs.

4. Disinfect all affected areas. Once the mess has been cleaned up, you will need to disinfect all surfaces that came into contact with the sewage. This includes walls, floors, furniture, and any other items in the affected area.

5. Throw away any porous items that cannot be disinfected. Porous items such as carpeting, drywall, and insulation can harbor bacteria and should be discarded.

6. Monitor your health. If you experience any symptoms of illness, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or fever, see a doctor immediately.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/flood/sewage.html

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/flood/sewage-flooding.html

https://www.angieslist.com/articles/what-do-after-sewage-backup.htm