If sewage is coming into your home
- Stop using water. Do not flush, run sinks, showers, the washer or dishwasher. Every gallon you send down the drain can come back up.
- Keep everyone away from the affected area, especially children, older adults, anyone with a weak immune system and pets.
- Do not touch it without gloves and boots.
- Turn off the AC or heat if the system pulls air from the affected area, to avoid spreading odor.
- Call (623) 555-0148
Why sewage cleanup is different
Sewage is classed as black water, the most contaminated kind of water damage. It can carry bacteria, viruses and parasites that make people sick. The rules are simple: anything porous that sewage soaks into, like carpet, pad, drywall and insulation, usually has to be removed. Everything that stays has to be cleaned and disinfected, not just dried.
Mopping and household cleaners do not do the job. Contamination soaks into grout, subfloor and the bottom of walls where you cannot reach it.
Common causes of sewage backups in Buckeye
Blocked main sewer line
Grease, wipes and paper products build up in the main line until it clogs. When it does, the lowest drains in the house, usually a shower or a first floor toilet, back up first.
Tree roots
Roots from mature trees can grow into older sewer lines through small cracks and joints.
Older sewer pipes
In older parts of Buckeye, sewer lines may be made of older materials that crack, sag or collapse over time.
City line problems
Rarely, a blockage or overload in the public sewer can push sewage back into homes. Heavy monsoon rain can add stress to the system.
Septic systems
Some properties in Buckeye, especially on larger lots, use septic systems instead of city sewer. A full or failed septic tank can back up into the house through the lowest drains.
Signs of a sewer problem before a backup
- More than one drain is slow at the same time
- Gurgling sounds from toilets or drains
- Water comes up in the shower when you flush the toilet
- Sewage smell inside or in the yard
- Wet or unusually green patches in the yard over the sewer line or septic field
If you see these, call a plumber before it turns into a backup.
How we clean up sewage
- Protect the rest of the house. We set up containment so contaminated air and debris do not spread to clean areas.
- Remove the sewage and standing water with extraction equipment.
- Remove contaminated materials. Carpet, pad, lower drywall, insulation and baseboards that sewage touched are bagged and removed.
- Clean and disinfect floors, framing and every surface in the affected area.
- Dry the structure with air movers and dehumidifiers.
- Deodorize so the smell does not come back.
- Rebuild with new drywall, baseboards and flooring.
A plumber needs to clear or repair the sewer line. We can work alongside them so the line is fixed before the rebuild.
What sewage cleanup usually costs
Sewage jobs cost more than clean water leaks because of containment, removal and disinfection. The final price depends on how many rooms were affected and how long the sewage sat. We give you a written estimate after we inspect.
Insurance for sewage backups
Many standard homeowners policies do not cover sewer backups unless you added a sewer or water backup endorsement. It is worth checking your policy before you need it. If you have coverage, we document everything for your claim.
Homes and businesses
Sewage backups in restaurants, offices and shops need fast, careful cleanup so the space is safe for customers and staff. We handle commercial sewage cleanup across Buckeye as well.
Related services
Areas we serve
Frequently asked questions
Is sewage backup dangerous?
Yes. Sewage can carry bacteria and viruses that cause illness. Keep people and pets away and avoid touching it without protection.
Can I clean up sewage myself?
It is not recommended. Sewage soaks into materials you cannot see, and cleaning it safely takes protective gear, containment and professional disinfectants.
Does carpet have to be thrown out after sewage?
Almost always. Carpet and pad that sewage soaked into cannot be reliably cleaned.
How long does sewage cleanup take?
Removal and disinfection often happen in the first day or two. Drying takes a few more days, and rebuilding follows after that.
Will the smell go away?
Yes, when contaminated materials are removed and the area is properly cleaned, dried and deodorized.
Is sewer backup covered by homeowners insurance?
Often only if you have a sewer or water backup endorsement. Check your policy or call your agent.
Can you help with septic backups?
Yes. The cleanup process is the same. A septic company handles pumping or repairing the system.