We have discussed the main causes of sewer backups and the ways to prevent sewers from backing up in prior blog posts. Now, we want to talk about the process of cleaning up a sewer backup and what to expect when a water damage restoration company is called in to help you. A sewer backup is considered a Category 3 water damage situation. It is a type of flooding that can pose great health risks, destroy your valuables, and lead to extensive damage to your house or business. You will want to call a water restoration company, like Expert Restoration, to come and promptly clean up the affected areas in the property. The sooner you get a water restoration company out to the property the sooner they can help minimize the amount of water damage and prevent mold. If you experience a sewer backup situation, immediately arrange for the cleanup of your property by a certified restoration company like Expert Restoration. This should include:
- Pumping and wet-vacuuming to remove water and sewer related liquids from all affected areas
- Mopping floors and wiping walls with a disinfectant solution
- Flushing out and disinfecting all of the pipes and plumbing fixtures
- Steam cleaning or removing wet carpet and pads or other fabric-covered items as needed
- Removing damaged wallboard or wall coverings
- Cleaning the ductwork as needed
Hopefully, you have already taken “before” photos of your basement (or any area likely to be affected by a sewer backup) and create a home inventory. If you have an incident, be sure to take “after” photos of the affected areas and list any items or areas affected by the water infiltration. You will want to make sure that you save all receipts related to water mitigation, cleaning the affected areas, repairs made to the cause of the backup and the cost to replace or repair the damage caused to the property and personal property. You will want to contact your insurance company or agent to file a claim when it makes sense.
If you have a sewer back up in Utah, you will want to call Expert Restoration at 801-642-4347 to come and help minimize the amount of damage and clean up the damage already caused by the sewer backing up. They serve all of the Wasatch front and back and are available 24/7to help with any water damage issues you might have.
