How To Handle A Sewer Backup
Water damage issues are a problem that no homeowner wants to experience. They come in many forms, but arguably, the worst of them is a sewer backup. When this happens, the consequences can be potentially devastating for your home or business. Not only can water leak into the basement, but that water isn’t exactly healthy! In order to address the problems caused by a sewer line backup, you should have an idea of the measures to take immediately afterward. We’ll show you how to handle a sewer line backup below!
Stop the Source of Water
Before you do anything to address the mess, you should stop the source of water! The sooner you do this, the less likely the issue will spread. Continuing to flush toilets, run showers, or operate your dishwasher after noticing a sewer backup can lead to some worst-case scenarios, such as basement flooding and excessive water damage. Don’t use your drains, sinks, or shower heads. This will only contribute more to the sewer line backup! The best way to avoid water damage from a sewer line backup is to cease the use of water immediately.
Prioritize Safety
Sewer backups involve highly contaminated water. Be careful and make sure to protect yourself. Working in the space in your flip-flops and basketball shorts is not advisable. Do not put yourself in harm’s way or do anything you are not comfortable with. Proper PPE (personal protective equipment) is necessary. Trained professionals will have coverall suits, boots, gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection.
Initiate Repairs and Avoid Cross Contamination
A licensed plumber will likely be required to repair the pipes or clear out the drains. Make that call so that the issue can be fixed immediately. While waiting for repairs, you want to make sure to avoid cross-contamination. Moving in and out of the space carelessly poses the risk of carrying contaminants into a previously unaffected area. Also, avoid placing fans on the contaminated area until it has been professionally cleaned and treated. You don’t want to blow contaminants throughout your property.
Document the Damages for Insurance
After an unfortunate event, such as sewer backup damage, property owners will often submit a claim to their homeowner’s insurance company. Insurance adjusters want to see documentation of the items being claimed. Taking pictures of damaged items such as furniture, clothing, building materials, and personal items will go a long way in processing the claim while you seek reimbursement. Soil-Away’s disaster restoration professionals can assist with this process.
Contact Our Quality Water Extraction & Damage Restoration Team For Sewer Backup Relief
A critical step on your list is to alleviate the water damage by hiring a certified and trained restoration professional. Soil-Away is the best team in New Hampshire to handle the task! We’ll properly remove non-salvageable building materials and contents. This will be followed by a thorough cleaning and sanitization process. We want you to have peace of mind after this setback at your home. Click here to contact us directly and solve even the toughest of sewer line issues!
