A sewage backup is one of the few water problems where cleanup is almost never a DIY job. The EPA recommends calling a professional experienced with contaminated water when damage was caused by sewage (EPA).
Right away
- Keep children and pets out of the area.
- Stop running water: no flushing, showers, dishwasher or laundry until a plumber clears the line.
- Don't touch sewage without gloves, boots and eye protection.
- Photograph the damage.
- In Santa Rosa, report sewage spills, overflows or backed-up sewer lines to the city at (707) 543-4200, or (707) 543-3805 after hours (Santa Rosa Rain Ready).
How cleanup works
Providers contain the area, extract the water, remove porous materials the sewage touched (carpet, pad, drywall, insulation), clean and disinfect hard surfaces and framing, and dry everything with documented readings before rebuild.
During floods
When the Russian River or a creek floods, septic systems and sewer lines can be overwhelmed. Treat any floodwater in the house as contaminated. See flood cleanup.
Want a local pro to take a look?It's free for homeowners and there's no obligation.
Insurance
Many homeowners policies only cover sewer or drain backup with a specific endorsement. Check your policy now, before you need it.
Where we connect homeowners
- Water damage in Santa Rosa
- Water damage in Petaluma
- Water damage in Rohnert Park & Cotati
- Water damage in Windsor
- Water damage in Healdsburg
- Water damage in Sebastopol
- Water damage in Sonoma
- Water damage in Glen Ellen & Kenwood
- Water damage in Cloverdale
- Water damage in Guerneville & the lower Russian River
- Water damage in Forestville
Other services
- Water damage restoration
- Emergency water removal
- Flood cleanup
- Burst pipe water damage
- Storm damage restoration
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to stay in the house?
If sewage is limited to one area and you can keep away from it, maybe. If it's widespread, or anyone in the home is vulnerable, staying elsewhere until cleanup is done is safer.
What causes backups?
Common causes include roots in the sewer lateral, grease and wipes, broken pipes, and sewer mains or septic systems overwhelmed in heavy rain.