The short answer
What Is in Sewage
Raw sewage contains a mix of human waste, water, and everything that goes down your drains. That includes pathogens like E. Coli, salmonella, hepatitis A, and norovirus. Parasites such as giardia and cryptosporidium can also be present. These organisms thrive in the warm, damp conditions left behind by a backup.
The longer sewage sits, the more bacteria multiply. Porous materials like drywall, carpet, and wood absorb the contaminated water. Even after the visible liquid is gone, pathogens can remain in the surfaces. That is why acting quickly and cleaning properly is essential.
- Bacteria from fecal matter
- Viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting
- Parasites that infect the intestines
- Mold spores that spread quickly
- Toxic gases like hydrogen sulfide
- Chemicals from household cleaners
How You Can Be Exposed
You can be exposed by touching contaminated water or surfaces with bare skin. Inhaling particles from dried sewage dust is another route, especially during cleanup. If you have open cuts or sores, bacteria can enter your bloodstream easily. Children and pets are especially at risk because they often touch floors and then put hands or paws in their mouths.
Even walking through the affected area can spread contamination to other parts of your home. Contaminated items can carry pathogens to clean spaces. You should avoid the area until it has been properly cleaned and dried. If you feel unwell, see a doctor.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms of exposure can appear within hours or days. Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common. Skin contact may cause rashes, itching, or infections. Respiratory symptoms such as coughing or wheezing can occur if you inhale contaminated dust or mold spores.
If you experience any of these symptoms after a sewer backup, seek medical attention. Do not ignore headaches, fever, or fatigue. These can be signs of a more serious infection. Keep children and pets away from the affected area until it is fully cleaned.
Safe Cleanup Steps
First, shut off water and electricity in the affected area if it is safe to do so. Open windows to improve ventilation. Wear protective gear like gloves, boots, and a mask. Do not use household fans that can spread particles into the air.
Remove saturated materials like carpet, padding, and drywall. These items cannot be safely cleaned and should be discarded. Use a disinfectant specifically labeled for sewage cleanup. After cleaning, dry the area thoroughly with dehumidifiers and fans. If the contamination is extensive, local water damage pros can handle the cleanup safely.
- Wear gloves, boots, and a mask
- Open windows for ventilation
- Remove soaked porous materials
- Disinfect with a product labeled for sewage cleanup
- Dry completely to prevent mold
- Wash hands thoroughly after cleanup
When to Call Professionals
If the backup covers a large area or has soaked into walls and floors, professional help is wise. Sewage cleanup requires special equipment and training to fully remove pathogens. Local water damage pros can assess the extent of contamination and perform the necessary cleaning. They also handle disposal of contaminated materials.
Your insurance company may cover some cleanup costs. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to understand your coverage. Acting quickly can reduce health risks and limit damage.
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
Can I clean up a small sewer backup myself?
For a very small area with minimal contamination, you might be able to clean it yourself using proper protective gear and disinfectants. However, the risk of missing hidden contamination is high. If you have any doubt, call the pros to ensure thorough removal.
How long does it take for mold to grow after a sewer backup?
Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions. The longer the area stays wet, the more mold will develop. You should dry the area as quickly as possible and remove porous materials to reduce the chance of mold growth.
What should I do with items that touched sewage?
Porous items like carpets, drywall, and upholstered furniture should be thrown away because they cannot be fully cleaned. Non-porous items like plastic and metal can be disinfected. When in doubt, discard the item to avoid health risks.