Sewage backups are Category 3 contamination. Keep people and pets away, stop using water and toilets, and call professionals. Cleanup involves extracting waste, discarding contaminated porous materials, disinfecting hard surfaces, and drying — plus a plumber to clear the line and find the cause.
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Sewage backups are a health hazard, not a DIY project. Sewage carries bacteria, viruses, and parasites, and anything porous it touches — carpet, pad, drywall, upholstered furniture — generally has to be removed and discarded.
Immediate steps
- Keep everyone, especially children and pets, out of the area.
- Stop using water and flushing toilets in the home.
- Turn off HVAC if it could circulate air from the affected area.
- Don't try to clean it with household products or a shop vac.
Professional sewage cleanup
Crews wear protective equipment, extract the waste, remove contaminated porous materials, clean and disinfect hard surfaces, and dry the structure. A plumber should clear the line and find the cause — tree roots and grease are common culprits in older Atlanta neighborhoods with clay sewer laterals.
Insurance note
Many homeowners policies exclude sewer and drain backup unless you added a specific endorsement. Check your policy, and if you don't have that coverage, it's usually inexpensive to add.
Frequently asked questions
Is sewage backup covered by insurance?
Many homeowners policies exclude sewer and drain backup unless you add a specific endorsement. Check your policy; the endorsement is usually inexpensive.
What causes sewer backups in Atlanta?
Tree roots in older clay sewer laterals, grease buildup, collapsed pipes, and municipal sewer overloads during heavy storms are the most common causes.
Can carpet be saved after a sewage backup?
Generally no. Industry guidance calls for removing and discarding carpet and pad that sewage has contacted.