Sewer Backup Emergency? Do These 7 Things Right Now

Raw sewage in your home demands fast, correct action. Do these seven things — in order — while you wait for help.

1. Stop all water use immediately

Every flush and every running tap adds to the backup. Tell everyone in the house: no water until the line is clear.

2. Keep people and pets away

Sewage carries bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Keep children and pets out of affected areas entirely.

3. Turn off electricity near the water

If sewage is near outlets, appliances, or the electrical panel area, switch off those breakers. Water and electricity are a lethal combination.

4. Don't use chemical drain cleaners

They won't clear a main-line blockage, they create hazardous fumes in standing sewage, and they can injure the technician who eventually opens the line.

5. Protect what you can — safely

If you can do so without wading through sewage, move valuables and block furniture legs. Don't attempt cleanup of raw sewage yourself beyond containment.

6. Locate your sewer cleanout

It's usually a capped pipe near the house foundation or property line. Knowing its location speeds up the technician's work enormously — and in some cases, carefully removing the cap outside can relieve pressure (ask us on the phone first).

7. Call for emergency service now

Our emergency line is answered 24/7. We'll talk you through immediate steps on the phone and dispatch a technician. Call (833) 713-2101 now.

After the emergency

Once the immediate crisis is handled, get a camera inspection to find the underlying cause — backups recur until the structural problem is fixed. Porous materials (carpet, drywall, upholstery) touched by sewage generally must be removed, not just cleaned; document everything with photos for insurance.