Dealing with a sewage backup is never easy. It’s messy, stressful, and can feel overwhelming. But this isn’t the time to panic. What you do next is important, and staying calm is the first step to getting things under control. If you’re facing a sewage emergency, here are a few key things to keep in mind to help you recover quickly and safely.
Call Sewage Damage Cleanup Specialists Soon
When a backup occurs, calling sewage damage cleanup specialists as soon as you can is key to protecting your property and, more importantly, your health. Professionals have the expertise and specialized equipment to manage toxic wastewater and contaminated debris, which often contain harmful bacteria and virus particles.
Attempting to clean it yourself without proper training can lead to further damage and potential exposure to disease. Calling a certified crew immediately allows them to begin water damage restoration right away to prevent mold from forming in your drywall, carpet, or basement—the sooner the damage is addressed, the better.
Document Damages for Insurance
Make sure to thoroughly document all damage as soon as it is safe to do so. Take clear photos and videos of affected areas, including soaked furniture, ruined flooring, and any visible sewage or water lines damaged by the backup.
These records are essential when filing a claim with your home insurance provider. Your insurance policy might cover cleanup and restoration, but accurate documentation ensures you receive appropriate compensation for losses related to your sewage emergency.
Shut off Electricity in Affected Areas
Sewage and water create a highly conductive environment, especially when it reaches electrical outlets or wiring. As a result, shutting off electricity in affected areas is essential for preventing shocks and potential fires.
This is especially important if a sump pump has failed or wastewater has seeped into walls, increasing the risk of a short circuit. Powering down systems near the damage also protects appliances and HVAC units from backflow and contamination.
Of course, don’t put yourself at risk in the process. You shouldn’t touch any fuse box or appliance until the power has been shut off, so staying away from affected areas is in your best interests.
Don’t Use Water Fixtures
Avoid using any toilets, showers, sinks, or appliances that connect to the drainage system until a plumber inspects the plumbing. Additional use may worsen the backup, which spreads waste and water even more.
Additionally, blocked drains or a failing septic tank can force more contaminated water into your property. This increases cleanup costs and poses a serious health hazard.
Wear Protective Gear
Before entering any contaminated area, wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, rubber boots, and goggles. Contact with wastewater can lead to skin irritation or infection from harmful substances like chlorine, detergent residue, and raw waste.
Proper gear also shields you from foul odor and airborne bacteria during cleanup. This is not just a matter of comfort—it’s essential for preventing long-term health issues from exposure to sewage, bleach fumes, or disease-carrying mold spores.
Safely Wash and Sanitize Salvageable Belongings
Once it’s safe to begin cleanup, sort through your belongings and determine what can be salvaged and what can’t. Hot water, soap, and a strong disinfectant can go a long way.
However, you may need to discard any porous materials like carpet or soaked clothing that can’t be fully sanitized. Items like furniture should be thoroughly disinfected to remove any trace of virus or sewage contamination. Dry everything quickly with heat or a dehumidifier to prevent mold growth and further damage.
If You Have a Sewage Emergency, Call Elite Water Damage Restoration
At Elite Water Damage Restoration, we’re here to provide homeowners and businesses with professional sewage damage cleanup and flood restoration services in Philadelphia. We also work directly with insurance companies to simplify and streamline the recovery process!
Contact us today to speak with our team, and we’ll arrive as soon as we can to restore normalcy to your life.
