Sewer Backup Ruined Your Home. 15 Tips to Restore and Prevent

Sewer Backup Ruined Your Home. 15 Tips to Restore and Prevent

Assess Damage from Sewer Backup

Coming home to find your basement or first floor flooded with sewage is a nightmare. Sewer backups can cause thousands of dollars in damage and create serious health hazards. If you’ve experienced a backup, you’ll need to act quickly to assess the damage and start the cleanup process. Here are 15 tips to help restore your home and prevent future sewer disasters.

1. Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of all affected areas before starting any cleanup. This provides proof for insurance claims and helps identify areas that need disinfecting or restoration. Pay close attention to soaked carpets, furniture, drywall, and appliances.

2. Call Your Insurance Company

Contact your agent right away to file a claim. Most homeowner’s insurance covers sewer backup damage, but this may require additional riders or policies. Your adjuster can advise on claim procedures, temporary housing, and recommended cleanup services.

3. Wear Protective Gear

Raw sewage contains dangerous bacteria, viruses, and parasites. When inspecting damage or cleaning, wear waterproof boots, gloves, goggles, and masks. Avoid direct contact with contaminated materials if you have any open wounds.

4. Remove Standing Water

Extract any standing water with a wet/dry shop vacuum. Avoid using household vacuum cleaners, as they can spread bacteria. Be sure to disinfect the vacuum when finished. If water remains trapped under materials, use caution when removing to avoid injury or falls.

5. Discard Porous Materials

Carpets, drywall, insulation, wood, and upholstered items are nearly impossible to fully sanitize after a sewage backup. Consult a restoration company, but you’ll likely need to dispose of these materials. Bag and seal them carefully to contain bacteria.

6. Clean Salvageable Belongings

Non-porous items like glass, plastic, and metal can be disinfected. Scrub surfaces with hot, soapy water. Then spray or wipe with a disinfectant labeled to kill bacteria and viruses. Rinse thoroughly and allow to fully air dry.

7. Hire Specialized Cleaners

For massive cleanup jobs, hire a sewage remediation company. Their commercial-grade equipment can extract water from subfloors and walls. Technicians use antimicrobial chemicals to sanitize the area and deodorize lingering odors.

8. Remove Flooring

Soaked carpeting, padding, laminate, and tile need to be removed to clean and disinfect subflooring. Cut carpets well past the wet area for complete removal. Be extremely careful when prying up tack strips or tiles to avoid injury.

9. Clean and Disinfect Floors

Scrub flooring with detergent, rinse thoroughly, and follow up with a disinfectant. Concrete may need sanitizing chemicals worked into the pores. Allow subfloors to completely dry before replacing floor coverings.

10. Dry Out Walls

Use fans and dehumidifiers to fully dry water-damaged walls before attempting repairs. Contaminated, porous materials like drywall and insulation will need replacement. Studs and framing may also require an antimicrobial disinfectant.

11. Sanitize Wood Furniture

When wood furniture remains saturated for too long, bacteria can penetrate deep inside. In some cases, the best option is to discard it. Valuable solid wood pieces may be worth professional restoration. Use disinfectants labeled for wood surfaces.

12. Repair Walls and Ceilings

Once underlying materials are dry and sanitized, repair damaged walls and ceilings. Use mold-resistant drywall and waterproof paints or sealants. Look for hidden moisture issues and correct before replacing surface materials.

13. Make Electrical Repairs

Have an electrician inspect outlets, wiring, appliances, and service panels that got wet. Replace items like circuit breakers and outlets after water exposure. Anything with motors or sensitive components may require professional cleaning.

14. Prevent Mold Growth

Use dehumidifiers and fans to keep affected areas dry. Watch for condensation and wet spots that signal hidden moisture. Disinfecting and drying early on can prevent costly mold infestations.

15. Improve Drainage

Inspect your home’s drainage system to identify and correct issues that allowed the backup. Install a backflow valve on main sewer lines and drainpipes. Improve grading to divert stormwater away from foundations. Work with a plumber to reduce future flooding risks.

Recovering from a sewer backup requires time and diligence. But taking prompt, thorough action minimizes contamination and expensive structural repairs. With the right cleanup process, you can safely restore your home after this sanitary sewer disaster.

Contact Insurance Provider Immediately

Coming home to a sewer backup flooding your basement or ground floor is a nightmare. Raw sewage can cause thousands in damages and create serious health risks. If you’ve had a backup, contacting your insurance provider should be one of your first calls. Insurance can cover repairs, replacements, temporary housing, and professional cleanup services. Here are 15 tips to help you file a claim after a sewer disaster and restore your home.

1. Document the Damage

Before calling your insurer, photograph and video all affected areas. This gives them visual proof of the damage when assessing your claim. Pay close attention to documenting soaked carpets, furniture, drywall, and appliances.

2. Find Your Policy Papers

Locate your insurance policy and any related sewer backup coverage forms. Your agent will need policy numbers, effective dates, and deductible amounts. Be prepared to email or fax over documents.

3. Call Right Away

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after discovering the sewer backup. Most policies require prompt claim filing. Your insurer may send an adjuster within 24 hours.

4. Explain What Happened

Provide details on when you discovered the backup, which areas of your home are affected, and if you’ve done any cleanup yet. Mention any previous drainage issues or recent plumbing repairs.

5. Follow Claim Instructions

The claims representative will explain next steps for your policy, such as arranging temporary lodging, mitigating damage, and coordinating with restoration specialists. Follow all guidelines closely.

6. Ask About Living Expenses

If your home is uninhabitable due to contamination, your policy may cover hotel costs, restaurant meals, and other temporary living expenses. Provide receipts for reimbursement.

7. Meet the Adjuster

An insurance adjuster will inspect your property damage firsthand and discuss recommended cleanup procedures. Walk them through affected areas and share any restoration contractor estimates.

8. Get Approval for Repairs

Before starting cleanup or repairs, get your insurer’s approval for all services and costs. Clarify their recommended remediation techniques. Discuss replacing versus salvaging affected materials.

9. Review Claim Settlement

Once your claim is processed, review the proposed claim settlement with your adjuster. Ask questions if the costs don’t align with contractor estimates or seem too low.

10. Hire a Cleanup Crew

With insurance approval, hire a sewage remediation company to handle large-scale cleanup. Their commercial equipment extracts water and sanitizes contaminated areas. Get a signed work contract.

11. Remove Saturated Materials

Work with your adjuster and restoration contractor to identify furnishings, flooring, walls, and insulation that need removal due to severe saturation or contamination.

12. Dry Out the Area

Use professional drying equipment like dehumidifiers, blowers, and air scrubbers to fully dry out the structure and prevent mold growth.

13. Make Repairs

Once your home is cleaned, sanitized, and dried, start repairs approved by your insurer. This may include drywall, flooring, woodwork, electrical, and plumbing.

14. Ask About Prevention

Discuss backflow valve installation or other prevention measures with your plumber. Some policyholders are eligible for future sewer backup prevention grants.

15. Improve Drainage

Correct any drainage issues outside your home that may have contributed to the backup. Improve grading, repair gutters and downspouts, and install sump pumps.

Filing an insurance claim promptly after a sewer backup limits damage and contamination in your home. Working closely with your insurer and restoration specialists facilitates the cleanup and repair process. With the right approach, you can safely restore your property after a sewage disaster.

Document with Photos/Video

Returning home to find sewage flooding your basement or ground floor is a traumatic experience. Raw sewage can cause major damage and create health hazards in your home. If you’ve had a backup, taking photos and videos should be one of your first steps. Visual documentation is crucial for insurance claims and identifying affected areas that require cleanup. Here are 15 tips to help you restore your property after a sewer disaster.

1. Take Initial Photos

Before touching anything, photograph the sewage backup while it’s still flooding areas of your home. Capture images of the original damage for your records and insurance claim.

2. Focus on Damage

Zero in on sewage-soaked carpets, furniture, drywall, and appliances. Try to capture the extent of saturation and contamination for insurance documentation.

3. Photograph Room by Room

Systematically photograph every affected room from multiple angles. This provides complete visual coverage of damage for insurance adjusters and restoration companies.

4. Take Close-Ups

Take close-up shots of damage details like swollen floorboards, stained walls, peeling paint, and corroded metal. Adjusters rely on seeing evidence up close.

5. Include a Point of Reference

Place an object like a coin or ruler in photos to communicate scale when damage is photographed up close.

6. Capture Model/Serial Numbers

Photograph identification tags on water heaters, furnaces, washers, dryers, and other appliances. This aids replacement if damaged.

7. Take Video Footage

Record video walkthroughs of the affected areas to give insurers a clearer view of your sewer backup damage. Narrate details as you film.

8. Document Date/Time

Track when photos and videos were taken by enabling date stamps and checking timestamps. This verifies when the damage occurred.

9. Keep Your Camera Dry

Exercise caution when photographing sewage flooding, as your camera and phone aren’t waterproof. Wear protective rubber gloves to avoid contamination.

10. Change Batteries/Storage

Use fully charged camera and phone batteries to complete all documentation. Free up storage space for large video files.

11. Take Follow-Up Photos

Capture images throughout the inspection, cleanup, repair, and restoration process. Compare to initial photos.

12. Label Files

Organize digital photo and video files in folders labeled by room, date, and details. This keeps documentation organized for insurance records.

13. Back Up Files

Save damage documentation files to external hard drives and cloud storage in case your computer is also damaged.

14. Share with Insurance Company

Email photos and videos to your insurance adjuster when filing a claim. Print selections to include with your submitted claim.

15. Keep Private

Only share damage documentation with your insurer, contractors, and restoration specialists working on cleanup. Do not post on social media.

Thoroughly documenting sewer backup damage with photos and videos provides critical insurance claim evidence. Visuals also help you identify contaminated areas for cleanup and repairs. With proper documentation, you have the details needed to restore your home after a sewage disaster.

Remove Standing Water ASAP

Returning home to discover raw sewage flooding your basement or ground floor is a nightmare. Sewer backups can cause major home damage and pose serious health risks. If you’ve experienced a backup, one of the first response steps is removing any standing water. Extracting the sewage quickly limits damage and contamination. Here are 15 tips to help restore your home after a sewer disaster.

1. Wear Protective Gear

Put on waterproof boots, heavy rubber gloves, goggles, and N95 masks before handling standing sewage. Avoid direct contact with contaminated water.

2. Bring in Fans

Set up industrial fans to maximize air circulation and evaporation. This aids drying out soaked materials faster.

3. Open Doors and Windows

Opening all exterior doors and windows enables fresh air intake and airflow to remove moisture. Just be sure your possessions stay secured.

4. Extract Obvious Standing Water

Use a wet/dry shop vacuum to extract all visible pooled sewage throughout your home. Don’t use household vacuums, as they can spread bacteria.

5. Lift or Move Absorptive Items

Gently lift soaked carpets, rugs, bedding, and furniture to remove water trapped underneath. Move items to an outdoor drying area.

6. Create Drainage Paths

Strategically place fans or dehumidifiers to draw water toward drains or out open doors. Absorbent towels can aid drainage.

7. Check Wall Cavities

Inspect wall spaces for hidden moisture. Drill small holes at baseboard level and use moisture meters to identify soaked drywall or insulation.

8. Monitor Flooring

Tap along floors and press on tiles or planks to find hollow or squishy sections revealing water trapped underneath.

9. Handle Drying Cautiously

Allow materials to dry naturally when possible to avoid structural damage. But faster drying may be required to avoid mold growth.

10. Call a Restoration Company

For large affected areas, hire a sewage remediation company to handle water extraction using commercial drying equipment.

11. Remove Porous Materials

Discard soaked carpeting, insulation, drywall, and upholstered items. The sewage can’t be fully removed from these porous substances.

12. Clean Salvageable Objects

Disinfect non-porous belongings like glassware, plastics, metals, and sealed hardwood. Follow up with thorough drying.

13. Document Removal/Drying

Photograph and take videos throughout the water removal and drying process. This is key for insurance claims.

14. Be Thorough

Keep extracting liquid and accelerating drying until all evidence of moisture is eliminated. Lingering dampness can spur mold growth.

15. Improve Drainage

Address any exterior drainage issues to divert stormwater away from your property’s foundation. Improving grading and gutters prevents future flooding.

Acting quickly to remove standing sewer water limits damage in a backup situation. Combined with accelerated drying, you can restore saturated areas and belongings. With diligence, your home can recover after a sanitary sewer system failure.

Disinfect Floors and Walls

Returning home to find raw sewage flooding your basement or ground level is a nightmare. Sewer backups can wreak havoc on your home and health. Once standing water is removed, disinfecting floors and walls is crucial for safe restoration after a sewage disaster. Here are 15 tips to help sanitize affected areas and recover from a sewer backup.

1. Create an Action Plan

Strategically plan your disinfection process room by room. Identify contaminated areas for priority treatment. Have needed cleaning supplies on hand.

2. Suit Up for Safety

Wear waterproof boots, gloves, goggles, and N95 masks during cleanup. Sewage contains dangerous bacteria, viruses, and mold spores.

3. Scrub Floors Thoroughly

Use a stiff broom and heavy-duty detergent to manually scrub floors. Focus on grout lines, cracks, and crevices harboring contamination.

4. Rinse Floors Completely

Thoroughly rinse floors with clean water to eliminate detergent residue. Remaining soap can reduce disinfectant efficacy.

5. Apply Disinfectant Liberally

Saturate hard, nonporous flooring like concrete, tile, and vinyl with a commercial disinfectant labeled for sewage spills. Follow product instructions.

6. Let Disinfectant Soak

Allow disinfecting solution to puddle and penetrate floor pores and cracks for the recommended wet contact time.

7. Scrub Walls and Baseboards

Use soap and water to manually scrub walls. Then apply a sewage-rated disinfectant and let soak per product guidelines before rinsing.

8. Remove Contaminated Drywall

Discard lower drywall that stayed soaked. The porous material likely requires replacement due to bacterial contamination.

9. Treat Exposed Wall Cavities

Spray disinfectant into wall openings without drywall. Let solution soak behind walls before installing new drywall.

10. Seal Disinfected Surfaces

After floors and walls are fully disinfected and dry, apply mold-resistant sealants. This adds an extra layer of protection.

11. Repair Walls and Floors

Once underlying materials are dried and disinfected, repair or replace damaged flooring, drywall, trim, and paint.

12. Repeat Disinfection

Disinfect floors and walls again after repairs and before moving belongings back in. This prevents recontamination.

13. Increase Ventilation

Improve indoor air quality with dehumidifiers, HEPA air filters, and fans. Enhance natural ventilation with open windows.

14. Hire Professional Cleaners

For massive sewage damage, hire remediation specialists to handle disinfecting. They use commercial-grade equipment.

15. Prevent Future Backups

Install a backflow valve on main sewer lines to prevent future sewage flooding. Maintain drains to avoid clogs.

Thoroughly sanitizing floors and walls removes dangerous contamination after a sewer backup. Follow with repairs and improved ventilation. With diligence, you can safely restore your home after a sewage disaster.

Dry Out Affected Areas

Returning home to discover sewage flooding your basement or ground floor is traumatic. Sewer backups can cause major property damage and health hazards. Once standing water is removed, thoroughly drying affected areas is crucial to restore your home and prevent mold growth. Here are 15 tips to help dry out sewage-soaked materials after a backup disaster.

1. Create Air Circulation

Open doors and windows to maximize fresh air intake. Use fans to circulate air across flooded areas to aid evaporation.

2. Control Humidity Levels

Use commercial dehumidifiers and temporary AC to lower interior relative humidity. Fans help circulate dry air.

3. Separate Wet Items

Move soaked carpets, padding, furniture, and belongings to well-ventilated areas. Spread out items to expose all sides.

4. Elevate Carpeting

Lay wet carpet and rugs over sawhorses or blocks to raise them off the floor. This allows air circulation underneath.

5. Use Absorbents

Place towels, newspaper, and fans underneath furniture to wick away moisture from the undersides.

6. Maintain Airflow on Surfaces

Periodically flip over or move damp materials to expose fresh sides to airflow until completely dry.

7. Check Wall Cavities

Inspect areas behind walls for hidden moisture. Drill holes at the baseboard to insert fans and exhaust damp air trapped in wall voids.

8. Monitor Progress

Use a moisture meter on wall cavities, floors, and material surfaces to gauge drying progress until readings indicate complete dryness.

9. Speed Drying Cautiously

Use dehumidifiers and fans to accelerate drying, but go slowly to avoid structural damage or warping.

10. Be Patient

Depending on the extent of saturation, drying out completely can take weeks. Don’t replace finishes until materials have dried.

11. Discard Unsalvageable Items

Throw away porous materials like drywall, insulation, carpets, and upholstered goods that remained soaked for over 48 hours.

12. Accelerate Structure Drying

To dry out a flooded basement or crawlspace, hire a restoration company to use commercial dehumidifiers and air movers.

13. Address Moisture Sources

Identify and remedy excessive humidity, leaks, foundation cracks, and drainage issues to prevent future moisture.

14. Monitor for Mold

Watch for hidden moisture or high humidity that could promote mold growth on dried materials.

15. Replace Finishes

Only rebuild affected spaces after ensuring underlying materials have completely dried to prevent trapped moisture issues.

Thoroughly drying out sewage-soaked areas minimizes damage and prevents mold growth after a backup. Combine air circulation, dehumidification, patience, and diligence to safely restore your home after water damage.

Clean Carpets and Rugs Thoroughly

Dealing with a sewer backup can be an extremely unpleasant and stressful experience. Few things are more disruptive than having your home flooded with contaminated water and sewage. But with some diligence and hard work, you can get your house back to normal.

Here are 15 tips to help you thoroughly restore and clean your home after a sewer backup:

1. Document the Damage

Before starting any cleanup, be sure to fully document the damage caused by the sewer backup. Take photos and videos of affected areas, including carpets, walls, floors, and furniture. Documenting the damage will help when filing insurance claims or seeking compensation from your city.

2. Call a Restoration Company

Consider hiring a professional restoration company to handle the cleanup process. They have the proper equipment and expertise to remove contaminated materials, dry out the home, and sanitize affected areas. This can help minimize health risks.

3. Remove All Affected Materials

Carpets, padding, drywall, flooring, furniture, and other porous materials touched by the sewage backup likely need to be discarded and replaced. Sewage can deeply penetrate these materials, making thorough cleaning impossible.

4. Clean All Hard Surfaces

Thoroughly scrub and disinfect hard surfaces like tile, wood, concrete, and metal. Use a solution of hot water and detergent, followed by a disinfectant. Be sure to get into corners and crevices. Allow all surfaces to completely dry.

5. Clean Any Remaining Soft Surfaces

For carpets, rugs, curtains, and other soft furnishings that can be salvaged, use a hot water extraction method (like a Rug Doctor) to deep clean. Disinfect with products containing chlorine bleach or pine oil, which can penetrate and kill lingering bacteria.

6. Remove Baseboards and Other Fixtures

Check areas around baseboards, toilets, tubs, and cabinetry for hidden contamination. Remove fixtures to access and disinfect areas behind them. Let fully dry before replacing.

7. Clean HVAC Systems

Have your home’s ductwork professionally cleaned, since sewage can spread throughout the HVAC system. Replace air filters. Also sanitize vents, registers, and diffusers.

8. Dry Out Affected Areas

Use dehumidifying equipment and fans to fully dry out the home. Drying areas quickly helps prevent mold growth. Wood structures may require additional drying techniques.

9. Replace Damaged Drywall

Drywall soaked by sewage needs to be removed and replaced. Cut at least 12 inches above the high water mark. Be sure areas are fully dried out before installing new drywall.

10. Seal Floors and Replace Flooring

After subfloors have dried out, use an oil-based primer to seal the concrete and prevent musty odors. Replace soiled carpeting and damaged wood flooring.

11. Prime and Paint

Use an oil-based primer on all structural surfaces before painting. Primer helps seal in odors and prevent stains from bleeding through. Repaint all walls, ceilings, and trim.

12. Clean Out Plumbing System

Have a professional flush and disinfect your home’s plumbing system. Remove toilet bowls and clean the wax ring beneath. Replace toilet bowl gaskets and any damaged pipes.

13. Clean Behind Walls

Inspect areas behind walls for hidden contamination. Remove bottom portions of drywall to clean framing and backsides. Only rebuild areas after fully drying.

14. Thoroughly Clean Belongings

Launder or dry clean clothing and fabrics exposed to sewage. Disinfect hard items like tools, dishes, and luggage. Safely discard anything still contaminated.

15. Consider Installing a Backflow Valve

Talk to a plumber about installing a backflow prevention valve on your home’s sewer line. This can help stop future sewage backups during heavy rains or municipal sewer overflows.

Restoring a home after extensive sewage contamination takes time and diligence. But taking proper cleaning and restoration measures can get your house looking as good as new while avoiding lingering issues or health hazards. Document the damage thoroughly and don’t hesitate to call in professional assistance. With some perseverance, even severe sewer backup damage can be overcome.

Salvage Furniture and Belongings

Dealing with a sewage backup in your home can be an absolute nightmare. Having your belongings contaminated and damaged by a flood of filthy water is extremely disruptive and upsetting. But don’t give up hope just yet – many items can potentially be cleaned, restored, and salvaged after a sewer backup.

Here are 15 tips to help you thoroughly restore your furniture, clothing, and other belongings after a sewer backup disaster:

1. Act Quickly for Salvage

Time is of the essence when deciding what to keep or discard after a sewage flood. The faster you can clean items or begin drying out furniture, the better chance you have at saving cherished belongings.

2. Document All Damage

Before starting cleanup, photograph or video record all affected belongings as evidence for insurance claims. Note damage like staining, warping, and other contamination.

3. Discard What is Unfixable

Porous items that absorbed sewage, like upholstered furniture, mattresses, stuffed animals, and carpeting will likely need to be thrown out. Sewage cannot be completely removed.

4. Clean Hard Surfaces

Non-porous items like glass, plastic, metal, and finished wood have the best chance of being disinfected. Use antibacterial cleaners and let dry completely in the sun.

5. Wash Salvageable Fabrics

Clothing, towels, sheets and other machine washable textiles should be laundered multiple times in hot water with bleach added. Run empty cycles afterwards.

6. Dry Out Wood Furniture ASAP

Remove drawers from wood furniture and dry thoroughly using dehumidifiers or fans. This can prevent warping or future mold growth. Let air dry in the sun.

7. Deep Clean Rugs and Carpets

For rugs or carpeting without heavy staining, use a carpet cleaner to extract contaminants. Then air dry and disinfect with carpet cleaner containing antimicrobials.

8. Repair Wood Surfaces

Wood furniture that warped or swelled can potentially be restored. Use wood glue to reform joints and sandpaper to smooth damaged areas. Refinish if needed.

9. Re-Stuff Upholstered Items

If sewage did not penetrate fabric, reupholstering may be an option. Replace damaged stuffing, foam, and padding before putting fabric covers back on.

10. Dry Electrical Items Thoroughly

Allow electronics or appliances to completely dry out for several days before reconnecting. This can prevent short circuits and fire hazards.

11. Clean Leather & Vinyl

Disinfect leather furniture, car interiors, purses, luggage, and vinyl with a leather cleaner containing antibacterials. Use conditioner afterwards.

12. Wash Dishes Thoroughly

Porcelain dishes and glassware contaminated by sewage can potentially be saved by washing in very hot, soapy water. Use bleach if needed.

13. Clean Tools and Hard Goods

Power wash tools, outdoor furniture, grills, and other hard items with water, detergent, and disinfectant. Allow to completely air dry.

14. Inspect Books Carefully

Carefully dry out hardcover and paperback books with fans and sunlight. Discard if pages are warped or stuck together. Wipe covers.

15. Know When to Toss

Be prepared to throw away unsalvageable items, especially those used with food or for personal hygiene. Don’t take risks.

Attempting to restore belongings after sewer contamination takes diligence and care. But it can allow you to save treasured items and avoid unnecessary replacement costs. Just be sure to thoroughly clean and dry items, and discard anything still visibly contaminated. With time and effort, you can reclaim many personal items from even the worst sewage backup.

Replace Porous Materials

Dealing with a sewage backup in your home can be an extremely dirty, unpleasant mess. Having contaminated water flood your property is disruptive and unhygienic. To fully restore your home after such an event, porous materials touched by sewage will likely need replacement.

Here are 15 tips for replacing damaged porous materials after a sewer backup disaster:

1. Document All Affected Areas

Before removing anything, carefully document damage through photos and videos. Note stains, saturation, and contamination levels. This aids insurance claims.

2. Discard Saturated Carpeting

Carpets and rugs absorbing sewage should be discarded. The contamination cannot be fully removed from the padding and fibers. Rip up and throw away.

3. Replace Drywall

Drywall wicks up moisture like a sponge. Any sections soaked by sewage need replacement. Cut at least 12 inches above water lines.

4. Remove Tile Flooring

Tile with permeable grout allows seepage underneath. Remove tile, cleaning any remaining thinset off the concrete before re-tiling.

5. Toss Out Insulation

Fiberglass and other porous insulation in walls and attics touched by sewage cannot be salvaged. Remove and replace with new, unfaced insulation.

6. Swap Out Contaminated Subfloor

Plywood and OSB subflooring saturated by sewer water needs replacement. Remove completely before installing new, seam-sealed subfloor.

7. Replace Drywall

Any drywall or wallboard that got wet needs removal for health safety. Discard and install new drywall once underlying areas are fully dry.

8. Remove Wood Flooring

Wood flooring that swelled or delaminated should be taken up and thrown away. Remove any remaining adhesives before installing new flooring.

9. Replace Damaged Piping

Inspect plumbing pipes and replace any sections contaminated by sewage exposure. Use new joints and fittings as needed.

10. Swap Out Ductwork

Replace any HVAC duct sections that got inundated by sewer overflow. They can harbor bacteria and release nasty odors.

11. Toss Saturated Furniture

Upholstered furniture, mattresses and other soft furnishings permeated by sewage cannot be adequately sanitized. Discard and replace.

12. Replace Drywall

Any sections of drywall or wallboard touched by sewage backup need to be removed and replaced once underlying areas are dry.

13. Relocate Electrical Outlets

Consider moving electrical outlets higher up on walls in case of future flooding. Replace any outlets or wiring affected.

14. Add Sewer Backflow Valve

Have a qualified plumber install a backflow prevention valve on sewer lines to prevent future backups from entering the home.

15. Upgrade with Waterproof Materials

When renovating sewage-flooded areas, use waterproof building materials like tile, metal, and plastic composites to minimize future damage.

While replacing contaminated porous materials is costly and time consuming, it is vital for health and sanitation reasons following a sewer backup. Document damage thoroughly and discard any saturation building materials. With diligence and patience, your home can be fully restored.

Hire Professional Cleaners If Needed

Dealing with a sewer backup can be an incredibly challenging and stressful ordeal. Having your home contaminated by foul sewage water is traumatic, unhygienic, and disruptive. In many cases, the restoration process requires professional assistance.

Here are 15 tips on when and how to hire professional cleaners and restoration services after a sewer backup disaster:

1. For Extensive Water Damage

If the sewage backup resulted in extensive flooding and water saturation throughout the home, professional water extraction services are likely needed.

2. If Sewage Odors Persist

If foul sewage odors linger even after extensive personal cleaning efforts, a professional ozone treatment or odor remediation may be required.

3. When Mold is an Issue

If any mold growth is detected after the flooded areas have dried, hire a mold remediation specialist to test levels and perform mold removal.

4. For HVAC Duct Cleaning

Have professionals thoroughly clean out your home’s HVAC system to remove contamination. They can also sanitize vents and ductwork.

5. For Porous Surface Removal

Professionals have safety gear and equipment to remove and dispose of porous materials like drywall, insulation, carpeting, and furniture permeated by sewage.

6. If Structural Drying is Needed

If flooding saturated walls, floors or the foundation, hire a contractor to ensure structural components are completely dried to prevent future mold or rot.

7. For Biohazard Sanitization

Specialized cleanup crews can sanitize and decontaminate affected areas using medical-grade disinfecting processes and advanced equipment.

8. When Demolition is Required

Professionals can demolish and remove damaged materials you may not be able to discard safely on your own, like drywall, insulation, and flooring.

9. For Plumbing Repairs

Hire an experienced plumber to inspect lines and fixtures for contamination or damage. They can also install preventative backflow valves.

10. If Electrical Work is Needed

Contact a licensed electrician if any wiring or outlets suffered water damage, to prevent hazards. Professionals can also relocate outlets higher up.

11. For Crawl Space Sanitizing

If your home has a flooded crawl space or basement, hire a mitigation crew to pump out water, dry the space, and sanitize all surfaces.

12. When Reconstruction is Extensive

For large-scale demolition, drying, sanitizing and reconstruction needs, hire a general contractor to coordinate various restoration tradespeople.

13. For Assistance Filing Claims

Many professional restoration companies are very familiar with insurance protocols related to sewer backups. They can advise you on documentation and filing claims.

14. To Verify Restoration is Complete

Hire an indoor air quality specialist after restoration to test for any lingering microscopic contamination before moving back into the home.

15. For Peace of Mind

Professional sewage remediation services use industrial-grade processes and equipment home cleanup simply cannot match. Hiring experts provides peace of mind.

Sewage cleanup and flood restoration can often benefit from professional assistance. For extensive damage or health concerns, specialized services may be advisable. With the right help, your home can be cleaner and safer.

Install a Backflow Valve

Dealing with a traumatic sewer backup in your home can be an extremely unsettling experience. Having contaminated water flood your property causes major disruption, not to mention health concerns. To help prevent a recurrence, a key step is installing a backflow valve.

Here are 15 tips on backflow valves and how they can help safeguard your home after a sewage backup disaster:

1. What is a Backflow Valve?

A backflow valve is installed on the main sewer line where it exits your home. It allows flow out, but blocks backups from entering from the municipal sewer.

2. How Does it Work?

The valve’s flapper only opens when waste water flows out from the home. If sewage backs up, the reverse flow presses the flapper closed to block entry.

3. Helps Prevent Backups

By keeping sewage from backing up into your home, a backflow valve offers reliable protection from future overflows during heavy rains.

4. Provides Peace of Mind

Knowing your home is safeguarded from foul sewer backups gives peace of mind. This key backup prevention can help you rest easier.

5. Have a Plumber Install It

A qualified, licensed plumber should install the backflow valve according to local codes. Do not attempt a DIY installation.

6. Requires a Shut-Off Valve

Your plumber will also install a shut-off valve so the backflow valve can be closed for maintenance and inspection without cutting off flow.

7. Install on Main Sewer Line

The valve must be installed at the exit point where the home’s main sewer line connects to the municipal sewer or septic system.

8. Consider a Double Check Valve

For maximum protection, opt for a double backflow valve with two flappers. This provides full protection even if one flapper fails.

9. Retrofits Existing Plumbing

Unlike other preventative plumbing, a backflow valve simply retrofits to the existing sewer line. No need to reroute drains.

10. Requires Occasional Maintenance

The valve should be inspected yearly and flappers replaced as needed to ensure proper functioning. Your plumber can handle this.

11. Costs Around $1500 Installed

Though not cheap, a backflow valve costs far less than sewage flooding damage. Worth the investment for peace of mind.

12. Eligible for Insurance Discounts

Some insurers offer premium discounts for properties with backflow valves, since the risk of repeat backups is reduced.

13. Check Local Codes

Some municipalities require backflow valves in high-risk flood zones. Check your local plumbing codes before installation.

14. Combines Well With a Sump Pump

Pairing a backflow valve with a backup sump pump provides maximum sewage overflow protection.

15. Well Worth the Investment

For a few hundred per year after installation, a backflow valve provides invaluable protection from the misery of sewage flooding.

Installing a backflow sewer valve is a smart way to safeguard your home from future sewage backup disasters. Paired with a sump pump, it provides maximum prevention capability with minimal maintenance.

Disconnect Downspouts from Sewer

If your home has suffered damage from a foul sewer backup, preventing future overflows is a top priority during restoration. One key prevention step is redirecting downspouts away from the sewer system.

Here are 15 tips on properly disconnecting downspouts from sewer lines after a sewage backup disaster:

1. Why Disconnect Downspouts?

When downspouts feed rain gutter runoff into sewer lines, it can overwhelm the municipal sewer during heavy storms and cause backups.

2. Divert Water Elsewhere

By redirecting downspouts to drain onto yards, splash blocks or rain barrels instead, you divert storm water away from the sewer.

3. Reduces Flow to Sewer

Disconnecting downspouts minimizes hydraulic overload of the municipal sewer, reducing the risk of backups during peak flow events.

4. Improves Sewer Capacity

Freeing up sewer capacity by diverting gutter runoff allows proper drainage for sinks, showers, and appliances in your home.

5. Helps Prevent Overflow

When downspouts no longer feed into sewers, it relieves strain and decreases the chances of backups and overflows into homes.

6. Locate All Downspout Connections

Inspect around your home’s perimeter to locate any and all downspouts connected to sewer drains or sewer vents.

7. Disconnect from Sewer Infrastructure

Dig out and disconnect downspouts from any sewer laterals, drain pipes, or vent stacks they may feed into.

8. Extend Downspouts Away from Foundation

Use downspout extensions to redirect water at least 5 feet away from the home’s foundation to proper drainage areas.

9. Drain to Splash Blocks or Rain Barrels

Position splash blocks or rain barrels underneath downspouts to capture runoff without flooding basements.

10. Maintain Proper Slope

Maintain 1/4 inch per foot slope on downspout extensions so water properly flows away from your home.

11. Consider French Drains

For especially problematic areas, install French drains to collect gutter runoff and transport it away from the home.

12. Insulate Disconnected Drains

Insulate any sewer drain or vent pipes that were disconnected to prevent freezing in winter.

13. Extend Downspout Outlets

If extending downspouts across sidewalks, driveways or patios, outlet the water properly past hardscape surfaces.

14. Seek Professional Assistance

For major downspout disconnection and drainage projects, seek professional help designing and installing the new system.

15. Contact Local Utilities

Check with local utilities or municipalities about downspout disconnection requirements in your area.

Redirecting downspouts away from sewer lines is an effective DIY measure to help prevent sewage backups. And it relieves pressure on municipal sewer infrastructure. Just be sure all runoff is directed away from your home’s foundation.

Maintain Plumbing Fixtures

If you’ve experienced the misery of a sewer backup in your home, you know the disruption and damage it can cause. As you restore and sanitize your home, be sure to also give attention to maintaining your plumbing fixtures.

Here are 15 tips for maintaining plumbing fixtures after a sewage backup disaster:

1. Inspect for Damage

Thoroughly inspect sinks, tubs, showers and all plumbing for damage or contamination from the sewer backup.

2. Check Under Sinks

Look for signs of water damage or mold growth under kitchen and bathroom sinks. Disinfect fully.

3. Clean and Disinfect

Scrub all fixtures with hot water and bleach. Vinegar also cuts through sewage residue.

4. Remove Mineral Deposits

Use descaling solutions to remove any accumulated mineral deposits around sinks, tubs and showers.

5. Prevent Clogs

Flush drains with enzyme cleaners weekly to break down buildup and prevent clogged, sluggish drains.

6. Install Hair Catchers

Place hair catchers or drain screens on all tub and sink drains to keep out debris that can cause clogs.

7. Check Pipes Under Sinks

Inspect exposed pipes under sinks for leaks or damage. Tighten connections or replace corroded sections.

8. Unclog Drains

Use a plunger, drain snake or commercial drain cleaner to remove any stubborn clogs or slow drains.

9. Update Old Fixtures

Replace aging or damage fixtures with new, water-efficient models to improve flow and pressure.

10. Caulk Around Fixtures

Seal sinks, tubs and plumbing fixtures with waterproof caulk to prevent water seepage and damage.

11. Replace Supply Lines

Swap out worn, flex supply lines under sinks and toilets with more durable braided stainless steel lines.

12. Install a Water Softener

Water softeners remove mineral deposits that can damage plumbing over time. Invest in one.

13. Replace Toilet Flappers

Worn toilet flappers allow water to leak into the bowl, increasing water use. Replace as needed.

14. Update Faucet Aerators

Replace old aerators on sink faucets with new water-saving models to reduce flow without losing pressure.

15. Hire a Plumber as Needed

For any plumbing repairs beyond your skill or comfort level, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber.

Giving plumbing fixtures attention and care after a sewer backup helps keep drains flowing properly while preventing future problems. Take time to thoroughly inspect, clean and maintain all fixtures.

Keep Drains and Pipes Clear

If your home has been damaged by a foul sewer backup, you want to do everything possible to avoid a repeat disaster. An important prevention step is keeping drains and pipes free of blockages.

Here are 15 tips for keeping drains and pipes clear after a sewage backup:

1. Inspect All Drains

Thoroughly inspect all sink, tub and floor drains to remove any debris that could clog pipes and cause backups.

2. Flush with Hot Water

Pouring hot water down drains helps dissolve grease and soap buildup that can slowly clog drain lines.

3. Use a Plunger

Plunge bathroom and kitchen sinks regularly to clear hair, food and other debris before clogs occur.

4. Try a Drain Snake

For tough clogs, use a plastic drain snake to break up and extract accumulated gunk.

5. Install Hair Catchers

Put hair catchers or screen covers over tub and sink drains to trap hair before it goes down the pipes.

6. Don’t Flush Wipes or Paper Towels

Avoid flushing anything except toilet paper. “Flushable” wipes and paper towels will clog pipes.

7. Use Enzyme Drain Cleaners

Monthly use of enzyme drain cleaners breaks down organic matter to keep pipes free of buildup.

8. Pour Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar is a natural drain cleaner. Repeat treatments to keep drains clear.

9. Clean Pop-Up Stoppers

Remove and clean gunk and hair from popup sink and tub stoppers so they seal properly when closed.

10. Scoop Out Sink Drains

Use a small plastic spoon to scoop out debris from bathroom and kitchen sink drain baskets.

11. Run Disposal Regularly

Run the garbage disposal often with plenty of cold water to grind up debris and keep drains flowing.

12. Pour Boiling Water Down Drains

Boiling water can dissolve oils and fats down kitchen drains. Do this weekly.

13. Check Under Sinks

Inspect pipes under sinks for leaks indicating clogs. Tighten connections as needed.

14. Have Drains Professionally Cleaned

For serious clogs, call a plumber to hydrojet or mechanically clear home drain pipes.

15. Install a Mesh Drain Screen

Install sink drain screens to catch debris before it enters pipes. Empty regularly.

Keeping all drains and pipes debris-free is key to avoiding backups. Make drain care a weekly routine for backup prevention.

Landscape Property to Direct Water Away

If you’ve had sewage back up into your home, you understandably want to prevent it from ever happening again. An important prevention step is landscaping your property to direct rainwater away from your foundation.

Here are 15 landscaping tips to help divert water away after a sewer backup disaster:

1. Assess Drainage Issues

Walk your property during and after rain to spot any areas where water pools near the home or flows toward your foundation.

2. Grade Soil Away from Home

Re-grade areas near the home to create a slope that directs water away from the foundation.

3. Install Drainage Swales

Dig out shallow drainage swales to collect and channel runoff from downspouts, patios and driveways away from your home.

4. Use Landscaping Stones

Use decorative stones, gravel and pebbles to create attractive drainage areas that move water away from the house.

5. Build Up Low Areas

Fill in any low spots near the foundation with dirt or gravel so they don’t collect standing water.

6. Plant Water-Loving Plants in Swales

Plant native grasses, shrubs and flowers that like moisture in your new drainage swales.

7. Install a Dry Creek Bed

Run drainage swales into a decorative, gravel-filled dry creek bed to divert large amounts of water.

8. Extend Downspouts Away from Home

Use downspout extensions to move gutter runoff at least 5 feet away from foundation walls.

9. Build Up the Yard

In low-lying yards, build up the areas around the home with delivered soil to improve drainage.

10. Install a Rain Garden

Rain gardens filled with native plants can soak up roof and sidewalk runoff.

11. Use Permeable Hardscapes

Patios, walkways and driveways made from permeable pavers allow water to drain through rather than pool up.

12. Consult a Landscape Architect

For major drainage issues, seek professional landscaping advice on redirecting water away from your home.

13. Check Gutters and Downspouts

Be sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris so they divert roof runoff properly.

14. Address Window Well Drainage

Ensure any window wells have proper drainage installed so they don’t overflow.

15. Make Drainage a Priority

Focus on good drainage first before other landscaping to prevent future sewer backup disasters.

Smart landscaping techniques go a long way towards diverting rainwater away from your foundation. Improved drainage and redirection of runoff will help prevent foul sewer overflows.