Sewage backups are more than just an unpleasant mess—they’re a serious health hazard that can spread dangerous bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants throughout a property. Whether caused by a blocked drain, broken sewer line, or flooding, sewage incidents require immediate professional intervention to protect both the building and the people inside.
The risks from sewage exposure are significant. Raw sewage can contain pathogens such as E. coli, hepatitis A, and salmonella, as well as parasites and toxic chemicals. Direct contact or even breathing in airborne particles can lead to severe illness. This is why prompt and proper cleanup is essential—not just to restore your property, but to make it safe again for occupancy.
One of the most dangerous misconceptions is thinking sewage cleanup can be handled like any other water damage. Unlike clean water from a burst pipe, sewage-contaminated water requires specialized handling. Professional crews follow strict safety protocols, using personal protective equipment and industrial-strength disinfectants to eliminate harmful microorganisms.
Our process begins with immediate containment to prevent the spread of contaminants to unaffected areas. Using specialized pumps, we extract all standing water and waste materials. Once removed, the impacted surfaces and structural materials are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Porous items like carpeting, insulation, and certain types of drywall often must be removed entirely to prevent long-term contamination.
Equally important is addressing the source of the problem. If the backup was caused by a blocked sewer line, root intrusion, or storm-related flooding, we coordinate with plumbing specialists to ensure the underlying issue is resolved. Without fixing the cause, there’s always a risk of recurrence.
Odor removal is another key step. Even after the visible mess is gone, strong odors can linger due to absorbed contaminants. We use advanced deodorization techniques that neutralize smells at the molecular level, leaving the property clean and fresh.
Attempting sewage cleanup without proper training or equipment isn’t just risky—it can make the problem worse. Disturbing contaminated water can spread pathogens through the air and into clean areas, increasing the risk of illness and expanding the scope of damage. Professionals ensure every step is handled with precision and safety in mind.
The faster you act after a sewage incident, the better the chances of saving structural materials and preventing costly repairs. Most importantly, prompt cleanup safeguards the health of everyone who lives or works in the building.
For more on sewage safety and health precautions, visit the CDC’s guide to floodwater and sewage or the EPA’s wastewater safety information.
Contact RestorePro at 1-800-847-0114 or visit our Facebook page for expert sewage cleanup and full property restoration.
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