Every homeowner’s worst nightmare is a sewage backup. Raw sewage can cause significant damage to your property and can also pose a serious health hazard. If you experience a sewage backup, it is important to call a professional sewage cleanup service immediately.

## Causes of Sewage Backups

There are a number of things that can cause a sewage backup, including:

* **Tree roots:** Tree roots can grow into and damage sewer lines, causing blockages that can lead to a backup.
* **Grease:** Grease from cooking or dishwashing can solidify in sewer lines, forming blockages that can cause a backup.
* **Flushing improper items:** Flushing items such as diapers, sanitary napkins, or paper towels can clog sewer lines, causing a backup.
* **Construction damage:** Construction in the area can damage sewer lines, causing blockages that can lead to a backup.
* **Heavy rainfall:** Heavy rainfall can overwhelm sewer systems, causing sewage to back up into homes and businesses.

## Effects of Sewage Backups

Besides the disgusting mess and smell, sewage backups can have a number of other negative consequences:

* **Property damage:** Sewage can damage carpets, floors, walls, and furniture. It can also lead to mold and mildew growth, which can further damage your property.
* **Health hazards:** Sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and other harmful organisms that can cause serious illness. If you come into contact with sewage, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of illness.
* **Environmental hazards:** Sewage can contaminate water sources and soil, posing a risk to human health and the environment.

### Cleanup and Disinfection

If you experience a sewage backup, it is imperative to contact a professional sewage cleanup service immediately. Professional sewage cleanup services have the training and equipment to safely clean up and disinfect your property. They will also take steps to prevent further backups from occurring.

Here are the steps that a professional sewage cleanup service will typically take:

* **Remove the sewage:** The first step is to remove the sewage from your property. This may involve using a pump or a vacuum.
* **Clean and disinfect the affected area:** Once the sewage has been removed, the affected area must be cleaned and disinfected. This will help to prevent the spread of bacteria and other harmful organisms.
* **Repair the source of the backup:** Once the affected area has been cleaned and disinfected, the source of the backup must be repaired. This may involve repairing a damaged sewer line or removing a blockage.
* **Prevent future backups:** Once the source of the backup has been repaired, steps should be taken to prevent future backups from occurring. This may involve installing a backflow valve or regularly cleaning your sewer lines.