Sewer Backups Are More Than Just a Mess
When a sewer backup happens in your home, it’s not just about bad smells and standing water, it’s a serious health hazard. Raw sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and other harmful contaminants that can make people sick. These germs can spread through your home quickly, even to areas that seem unaffected.
The water from a sewer backup is considered “Category 3” water, the most dangerous type. It can contain E. coli, salmonella, and other dangerous microorganisms. Breathing in fumes or coming into contact with contaminated water can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and stomach illnesses.
How Damage Spreads Quickly
Sewer water doesn’t just stay where it first enters your home. It can seep into floors, walls, and furniture, soaking materials that then become contaminated. The longer the water remains, the harder it is to clean, and the greater the chance that mold will start growing.
Porous materials like carpet, drywall, and insulation can absorb this contaminated water, making them unsafe and often requiring full replacement. Even the air in your home can become polluted as airborne particles from sewage spread.
Why Speed Is the Key to Safety
The faster emergency restoration begins, the better your chances are of saving your home and belongings. Professional restoration crews have specialized equipment to remove contaminated water, sanitize affected areas, and stop bacteria and mold from spreading.
Time is critical, every hour counts. The sooner the water is removed and the area is disinfected, the lower the risk to your health and the less damage your home will suffer.
Expert Tip: Don’t Handle Sewer Backups Alone
“Sewer backups are one of the most dangerous situations a homeowner can face,” says David Singleton, owner of Seattle Restoration Pros. “This isn’t a DIY job, you need trained professionals who can remove the water safely, clean thoroughly, and protect your health.”
If you ever experience a sewer backup, leave the area immediately and call an emergency restoration team. Avoid contact with the water, keep children and pets away, and make sure the affected space is fully disinfected before re-entering. Acting quickly is the best way to keep your home safe and healthy.
Don’t Wait, Act Fast!
The longer water sits in your home, the more damage it causes. An IICRC-certified water mitigation company can assess the damage, use advanced tools to locate hidden moisture, and restore your home to a safe, dry condition.
If you want to protect your health, avoid costly repairs, and restore your home quickly, don’t wait, call an IICRC-certified water mitigation company as soon as disaster strikes.
