Sewage cleanup in progress

One of the most troublesome issues a homeowner can have the displeasure of running into is a sewage backup. They usually happen when an obstruction or damage to the sewage line prevents wastewater from draining away from your home. Not only does this cause an unsightly, smelly mess, it can also put you at risk of contamination or sickness if you attempt to handle it on your own. A sewage backup is an all-around nightmare of a situation.  

Home restoration companies provide sewage clean-up and removal so you don’t have to expose yourself to the contaminated water. They will expertly isolate the situation and remedy the issue that caused the backup in the first place. This is what that process looks like. 

What Are The Signs of a Sewage Backup?

There are many warning signs you can pick up on before a sewage backup grows to dangerous levels. Luckily, if you can get ahead of the issue, you can prevent major damage to your sewage line and plumbing system. If you notice any of the following signs, call your restoration company right away:

  • A foul odor coming from your drains. Your pipes are connected to the outside sewage lines so if there’s a backup, you’ll be able to smell it. 
  • Slow or clogged drains. If you notice multiple drains with issues draining all at once, there is likely a greater underlying cause. 
  • Bubbling drains or toilets. This can mean that your wastewater is obstructed and can’t flow through your plumbing system as it should.
  • A smelly, soggy yard. This is a sign that the sewage is seeping into the ground around your home.
  • Sewage coming up from your drains. At this point, the issue is likely to be severe. 

Related article: What to Not Flush Down The Toilet

How Your Technician Will Clean Up After a Sewage Backup 

Every situation will be slightly different based on what caused the backup and how your home is connected to the municipal sanitary sewer lines. It will also vary based on the severity of the problem. But, generally speaking, the process will look a little something like this: 

  1. Remove the sewage and wastewater. Your technician will use a truck-mounted pump to extract all the backed-up sewage. 
  2. Remove damaged items. If there was damage to your home, they will remove any contaminated items. If the damage affected part of the home itself such as drywall, they will work to remove that too. 
  3. Handle the water damage. Once the danger of pathogens and virus-infested wastewater is handled, they will dry out your home and handle any water damage.  
  4. Mitigate the risk of mold. Mold can crop up a mere 24 – 48 hours after water damage. Your technician will take steps to prevent this from happening. 
  5. Disinfect and deodorize the home. A sewage backup can leave behind lingering germs and odors. One of the last steps is sanitizing and getting rid of the smell.  
  6. Restore the home. The storm is almost behind you. Now, all that needs to be done is building back up anything the sewage backup destroyed. 

Remember, every situation will look different. Some of these steps might not be necessary. Sometimes, your restoration expert may need to take additional steps to completely remedy the situation. It all depends on what caused it and the damages incurred.

How to Prevent a Sewage Backup

A sewage backup is truly the last disaster anyone wants to deal with. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to reduce the chances that it will happen to you. Here are some tips on how to take good care of your plumbing and sewage line so they’re less likely to clog up.

  • Don’t put fats, oils, or coffee grounds down the drain
  • Use a hair catcher in the shower
  • Don’t flush diapers or menstrual products down the toilet
  • Be wary of “flushable” wet wipes 
  • Clear out your sewage every three to five years
  • Get your sewer line inspected every six to ten years

We Are Your Certified Sewage Restoration Company 

Restoration 1 Central Denver is qualified under the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification to conduct top-tier sewage cleanup and removal. Whether your issue is big or small, we have you covered! We can even come in to address toilet overflow and flooded bathrooms. 

Contact us 24/7 for emergency sewage removal services. Or schedule out a routine sewage line inspection or cleaning. Contact us for all your restoration needs at (720)-524-4680 or online

Author: John Rust

Author: John Rust

John Rust, Owner of Restoration 1 of Central Denver has been in the exterior and interior restoration industry for 12 years. His background includes exterior building products including roofing and siding, as well as interior restoration and reconstruction. John's experience encompasses field, sales and operations in both industries and currently manages all daily business and operations for Restoration 1 of Central Denver.