What is a Sewage Backup?
A sewage backup occurs when wastewater from your home’s plumbing system backs up into your house. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
* Clogs in the main sewer line
* Tree roots growing into the sewer line
* Breaks in the sewer line
* Heavy rainfall overwhelming the sewer system
What are the Effects of a Sewage Backup?
A sewage backup can have a number of negative effects on your home and health, including:
* Property damage: Sewage water can damage your floors, walls, furniture, and appliances.
* Health risks: Sewage water can contain harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause illness.
* Unpleasant odors: Sewage water has a strong, unpleasant odor that can make your home uninhabitable.
What should you do when Sewage Backs Up in Your House?
If you experience a sewage backup in your home, it is important to take the following steps:
* Call a Sewage Cleanup Service immediately. A professional can safely clean up the sewage water and restore your home to a safe condition.
* Do not attempt to clean up the sewage water yourself. Sewage water is hazardous and can contain harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause illness.
* Ventilate your home by opening windows and doors. This will help to remove the unpleasant odor and prevent the spread of bacteria.
* Contact your insurance company to file a claim. Sewage backup damage is typically covered by homeowners insurance.
How to Prevent Sewage Backups
There are a number of things you can do to help prevent sewage backups in your home, including:
* Have your sewer line inspected and cleaned regularly. This will help to remove any clogs or debris that could cause a backup.
* Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items down your toilets. These items can clog your sewer line and cause a backup.
* Install a backwater valve on your sewer line. This will help to prevent sewage water from backing up into your home if the main sewer line becomes clogged.