Sewer Backup
Sewer backup is every homeowner’s nightmare—when nasty water (and worse!) from clogged pipes or overloaded sewage systems floods backwards into your home. Think toilets, sinks, or drains spewing contaminated water.
Why It’s an Emergency:
- Black water alert: Contains dangerous bacteria, viruses, and waste 🦠☠️
- Health hazards: Can cause serious illnesses (like E. coli)
- Smell & stains: Sewage leaves foul odors and permanent damage
Common Causes:
🚽 Clogged sewer lines
🌧️ Heavy rain overloading city systems
🌳 Tree roots crushing pipes
What to Do:
1️⃣ Evacuate the area (don’t touch it—call pros immediately!)
2️⃣ Shut off electricity (if safe to do so)
3️⃣ Document damage (for insurance with PHOTOS, not hands-on inspection!)
Example: After the city sewer main burst, brown sludge flooded the basement—requiring hazmat-level cleanup.
⚠️ Never DIY This! Sewer backups require professional remediation with industrial gear.
Gross but True: Just 1 inch of sewage can cause $10,000+ in damage! 💸
Visual: Like a zombie apocalypse… but for your plumbing! �♂️🚽💥
« Back to Glossary Index