Sewage backup in Athens, GA

Sewage backups are a health hazard, not just a mess. Water from a backed-up drain, toilet or sewer line is contaminated and should be treated as such until a professional says otherwise.

Call (844) 578-1833

We are a referral service. An independent local company does the work.

Signs to look for

Water or sewage coming up from floor drains, tubs or toilets
Gurgling drains, or several fixtures backing up at once
A strong sewage smell in the basement or lower level

Do this first

Keep people and pets away from the affected area, especially children.
Avoid contact. Wear waterproof boots and gloves if you must enter, and wash well afterward.
Stop using sinks, toilets, showers and washing machines so you do not add more water.
Do not use a household vacuum on wet sewage, and do not try to dry carpet yourself.
Find out whether the blockage is in your line or the main. Call a plumber, and your utility if the main is involved.

What a restoration company usually does

Porous materials that soak up sewage, such as carpet, padding and drywall, usually have to be removed and thrown away. Crews extract the water, clean and disinfect hard surfaces, and dry the structure. Ask which materials they plan to remove and how they will disinfect and verify the area afterward.

Insurance notes

Coverage depends on the cause. A backup from a drain or sewer is often excluded unless your policy has a water backup endorsement. Ask your insurer, and keep photos before cleanup.

In the Athens area

If a clog is in the private line from your house to the street, the plumber and the cleanup are your responsibility. If the problem is in the public main, contact your local utility. Note the time you saw the backup either way.

Common questions

Can I clean up a sewage backup myself?

It is not recommended beyond a very small, contained spill. The CDC notes that a flooded home may be contaminated with sewage. If you must go in, avoid contact, use protective gear, and leave porous materials to a professional.

Is it safe to stay in the house?

Keep people and pets away from the affected area and out of contact with the water. Ask the cleanup company which other rooms are safe to use.

What has to be thrown away?

Porous materials that soaked up sewage, such as carpet, padding and drywall, are usually removed. Hard surfaces can often be cleaned and disinfected.

Who pays for a sewer backup?

It depends on the cause and your policy. Backups are often excluded unless you have a water backup endorsement. If the blockage is in the public main, contact your utility.

Water coming in right now? Call and we will connect you with a local restoration company, any hour.