The short answer
Remove Contaminated Materials
Before any sanitizing can happen, pros remove everything that sewage touched and cannot be safely cleaned. This includes porous items like drywall, carpet, padding, insulation, and upholstered furniture. These materials absorb sewage and can harbor bacteria deep inside, making them impossible to fully disinfect. Removing them also prevents odors from lingering and reduces the risk of mold growth later.
Clean Surfaces Thoroughly
Once contaminated items are gone, pros clean the remaining surfaces with a heavy-duty detergent. This step breaks down grease, dirt, and organic matter that sewage leaves behind. Cleaning comes before disinfecting because disinfectants do not work well on dirty surfaces. Pros scrub walls, floors, baseboards, and any hard surfaces that were touched by the spill.
They pay special attention to cracks, crevices, and joints where bacteria can hide. A thorough cleaning also removes the visible staining and prepares the area for the disinfectant. You might see pros using stiff brushes and mops with cleaning solutions that are strong enough for sewage but safe for your home. This stage is labor-intensive but essential for a successful sanitizing process.
Apply Disinfectants
After cleaning, pros apply a hospital-grade disinfectant to all affected surfaces. These products are registered to kill a broad spectrum of pathogens, including E. Coli, salmonella, and other bacteria found in sewage. The disinfectant is often sprayed or wiped on and left to sit for a specific contact time, which is the time needed to actually kill the germs. Pros follow the label instructions carefully to ensure effectiveness.
Some disinfectants are applied as a foam or fog to reach hard-to-access areas. Pros may also use antimicrobial treatments that continue to protect surfaces after the initial application. You should not re-enter the area until the disinfectant has dried and the space has been ventilated. This step is what makes the difference between a clean-looking surface and a truly sanitary one.
Dry and Test the Area
Moisture is a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, so pros dry the area completely after sanitizing. They use air movers and dehumidifiers to pull moisture out of walls, floors, and the air. This can take several days, depending on how much water was involved and how porous the materials are. Pros monitor the moisture levels with specialized meters to confirm everything is dry.
After drying, pros may take surface samples to test for remaining bacteria or pathogens. This testing helps verify that the sanitizing process was successful. If any areas still show contamination, they retreat those spots and dry them again. You should wait until the pros say the area is safe before using the space again. This final check gives you confidence that your home is truly clean.
Prevent Future Spills
Sanitizing after a sewage spill is only part of the job. Pros also look for the cause of the backup, such as a clogged pipe, a broken seal, or a failing pump. Fixing the source prevents a repeat incident and protects your home from future damage. In some cases, you may need a plumber to repair the underlying plumbing issue.
Pros can also recommend steps you can take to reduce the risk of future sewage backups, like avoiding flushing wipes or grease down the drains. Keep your emergency shutoff valve location written down so you can act quickly if a backup starts. Acting fast after any sewage issue limits the damage and makes cleanup easier. Your insurance policy may cover some of these costs, but policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Bullets are not needed here.
- Remove all porous contaminated materials
- Clean hard surfaces with heavy-duty detergent
- Apply hospital-grade disinfectant with proper contact time
- Dry completely with air movers and dehumidifiers
- Test surfaces for remaining bacteria
- Fix the source of the sewage backup
Safety Precautions
Sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can make you sick. Pros wear protective clothing, gloves, boots, and respirators to avoid contact with contaminants. You should never enter a sewage-affected area without proper protection. If you feel unwell after being near a spill, see a doctor.
Keep children and pets away from the affected area until pros finish the cleanup. Open windows and use fans to ventilate the space while work is happening. Do not try to clean sewage yourself with household cleaners, as they are not strong enough to kill all pathogens. Professional sanitizing is the safest way to handle a sewage spill.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Mesa and nearby communities.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
How long does sewage cleanup take?
The process can take several days, depending on the size of the spill and how much material must be removed. Drying alone often takes two to three days. Pros can give you a better timeline after assessing the damage.
Can I stay in my home during cleanup?
It is usually safer to stay elsewhere during the active cleanup and drying phase. The area contains harmful bacteria and strong odors. Once pros confirm the space is sanitized and dry, you can return. Your comfort and health matter most.
Will my insurance cover sewage cleanup?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Some policies include sewage backup coverage, while others do not. Check your policy documents or talk to your insurance agent to understand what your plan includes.