What to Do After a Sewage Backup

Cleanup and Disinfection

Following a sewage backup, it is crucial to address the situation promptly and effectively to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and protect your health. The following steps are recommended:

• Safety First: Wear protective clothing, including gloves, a mask, and eye protection.
• Remove Sewage: Pump out the sewage using a submersible pump or contact a professional sewage cleanup service.
• Clean Surfaces: Scrub affected surfaces with a disinfectant solution made of 1 cup bleach per gallon of water.
• Dry and Ventilate: Allow the area to dry thoroughly and provide ample ventilation by opening windows and doors.

Effects

Sewage backups can have significant health and environmental impacts:

Health Issues: Sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause serious illnesses such as gastrointestinal infections, skin rashes, and respiratory problems.
Environmental Contamination: Sewage can contaminate soil, water bodies, and vegetation, posing a risk to ecosystem health and human well-being.

How do I get the sewer smell out of my house after backup?

Eliminating the lingering odor after a sewage backup requires addressing the source and implementing effective odor control measures:

Find the Source: Check for any remaining sewage or debris that may be trapped in pipes, drains, or other areas.
Clean and Disinfect: Thoroughly clean and disinfect all affected areas with a bleach solution (1 cup bleach per gallon of water).
Use Air Purifiers: Utilize air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove airborne contaminants and odors.
Neutralize Odors: Sprinkle baking soda or activated charcoal in affected areas to help absorb and neutralize odors.