Sewage Backup Cleanup in Raleigh
A toilet, floor drain or tub that backs up with waste is Category 3 water. It carries bacteria and viruses, so the cleanup rules are stricter than for a clean-water leak.
- Category 3 black water
- Removal and disinfection
- Protective equipment
Sewage backup is Category 3 (black) water. Keep children and pets away, don't walk through it, turn off power to wet areas if it is safe, and stop using water in the house. Soaked carpet, pad and lower drywall are usually removed and thrown out, and the area is cleaned, disinfected and dried by a contractor with protective equipment.
A sewage backup is not a job for household cleaners and a wet vac. Contaminated porous materials hold bacteria even after they look dry. Restoration contractors treat the area as a contaminated zone: they isolate it, remove what can't be cleaned, disinfect hard surfaces and then dry the structure.
Signs of a sewer backup
Multiple drains backing up
Water rising in a tub or shower when a toilet flushes points to a main line blockage.
Sewage odor
A persistent sewer smell near drains or in a crawl space.
Gurgling drains
Bubbling or gurgling toilets and drains often come before a backup.
Backups during heavy rain
Storm water entering sewer lines can push waste back into homes.
What to do after a sewage backup
- Keep everyone out of the affected area, especially children, older adults and pets.
- Stop using water in the house: no flushing, laundry or showers until the line is cleared.
- Turn off power to the area if you can do it safely without touching the water.
- Don't try to clean it with a household vacuum or fans. Fans can spread contaminants.
- Call a plumber to clear the blockage, and a restoration contractor for cleanup.
- Photograph the damage and check whether your policy has a sewer or water backup endorsement.
How sewage cleanup works
- Containment of the area to keep contamination from spreading.
- Protective equipment for the crew, such as gloves, boots and respirators.
- Removal of contaminated porous materials such as carpet, pad, upholstered items and the lower part of drywall.
- Cleaning and disinfection of hard surfaces and framing.
- Drying and moisture verification before repairs start.
Questions to ask the contractor
- Do you follow the IICRC S500 standard for Category 3 water?
- What will be removed and thrown out?
- How will you contain the area and protect the rest of the house?
- What disinfectant will you use, and how do you verify the area is clean and dry?
- Can you show proof of insurance?
Who is responsible for the sewer line?
In most cities, the homeowner is responsible for the private sewer service line that runs from the house to the public main, and the utility maintains the main. If you are on City of Raleigh sewer and suspect the problem is in the public main, contact Raleigh Water. If your home is on a septic system, call a septic service.
Insurance and sewage backups
Many standard homeowners policies exclude water that backs up through sewers or drains unless you added a water backup endorsement. Check your policy before you assume it is covered or not.
Frequently asked questions
Is sewage backup dangerous?
Yes. Sewage can contain bacteria, viruses and parasites. Avoid contact and keep vulnerable people and pets away.
Can carpet be saved after a sewage backup?
Usually not. Carpet and pad soaked with sewage are generally removed and discarded under industry standards.
Does homeowners insurance cover sewage backup?
Often only if your policy has a water or sewer backup endorsement. Check your declarations page or ask your agent.
Should I call a plumber or a restoration company?
Both. A plumber clears the blockage. A restoration contractor removes contaminated materials, disinfects and dries.
Related help
Water in your home right now?
Stop the water, stay away from wet electrical areas, and take photos. Our first-steps checklist walks you through the next hour.