Sewer backups are one of the most unpleasant and hazardous plumbing problems a property owner can face. Beyond the foul odor and visible mess, sewage spills pose serious risks to human health, property value, and structural integrity. When raw sewage enters your home or business, it’s not just a simple cleaning job—it’s a biohazard situation that requires immediate professional attention.
In this blog, we’ll explore why sewer backups happen, the health and safety dangers they present, and why calling a professional biohazard cleanup and restoration service like STOP Restoration Spokane is the safest and most effective solution.
Why Do Sewer Backups Happen?
Sewer backups can occur for a variety of reasons, often without warning. Some of the most common causes include:
Clogged Drains or Pipes – Flushing grease, wipes, hygiene products, or other non-flushable items can block sewer lines.
Tree Root Intrusion – Roots seek moisture and can penetrate small cracks in pipes, leading to blockages and ruptures.
Damaged or Collapsed Sewer Lines – Older clay or cast-iron pipes are prone to deterioration, cracks, or collapse over time.
Heavy Rainfall or Flooding – When municipal sewer systems are overwhelmed, water can backflow into residential and commercial plumbing systems.
Improper Disposal Habits – Pouring chemicals, paint, or hazardous liquids down drains not only damages pipes but also contributes to clogs and environmental hazards.
No matter the cause, the result is the same: contaminated wastewater flooding your property, putting both your health and investment at risk.
The Hidden Dangers of Sewer Backups
A sewer backup is far more dangerous than a standard water leak. Here’s why:
1. Health Risks from Pathogens
Sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Hepatitis A. Exposure—whether through inhalation, direct contact, or accidental ingestion—can cause serious illnesses.
2. Airborne Contamination
As sewage water evaporates, it can release toxic gases like methane, ammonia, and hydrogen sulfide into your home. These gases are not only foul-smelling but also hazardous to breathe.
3. Mold Growth
Moisture from sewage backups creates the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Mold can spread within 24–48 hours and cause long-term damage to your property and respiratory health.
4. Structural Damage
Prolonged exposure to contaminated water weakens floors, walls, and foundations. What starts as a plumbing problem can escalate into thousands of dollars in repairs if not handled quickly.
Why You Shouldn’t Handle Sewer Backups Alone
Many property owners think a sewer backup can be addressed with household cleaning products and protective gear. Unfortunately, that approach is not only ineffective but also unsafe.
Household cleaners can’t kill all pathogens present in sewage waste.
Protective gear from a local hardware store isn’t enough to safeguard against biohazard exposure.
Improper disposal of contaminated materials can spread disease or violate local waste regulations.
DIY cleanup often overlooks hidden contamination, such as seepage into wall cavities, under flooring, or into HVAC systems.
For these reasons, it’s critical to hire professionals who have the training, equipment, and experience to handle biohazard situations safely.
STOP Restoration Spokane: Your Trusted Biohazard Cleanup Experts
When disaster strikes, you need a company that can respond quickly and restore your property to a safe and healthy condition. That’s where STOP Restoration Spokane comes in.
1. Specialized Biohazard Training
The team at STOP Restoration Spokane is trained to follow strict biohazard remediation protocols. They use hospital-grade disinfectants, protective equipment, and proven techniques to eliminate harmful pathogens.
2. Advanced Equipment
From industrial-grade extraction pumps to air scrubbers and dehumidifiers, their specialized equipment ensures that contaminated water is safely removed and affected areas are fully dried to prevent mold growth.
3. Thorough Containment and Cleanup
STOP Restoration Spokane doesn’t just clean visible messes. They identify and remove hidden contamination, sanitize affected surfaces, and ensure that all waste is disposed of in compliance with health and safety regulations.
4. Water Damage Restoration
Sewage backups often cause significant water damage. As a full-service restoration company, STOP Restoration Spokane repairs flooring, drywall, and other affected areas, restoring your property to pre-loss condition.
5. 24/7 Emergency Response
Sewer backups don’t wait for business hours, and neither does STOP Restoration Spokane. Their team is available day and night to respond to emergencies, minimizing damage and risk.
Preventing Future Sewer Backups
While not all sewer backups can be prevented, you can reduce your risk with some proactive measures:
Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper.
Dispose of grease, oils, and food scraps in the trash, not the sink.
Schedule regular plumbing inspections, especially if you live in an older home.
Install a backwater prevention valve to stop sewage from backing up into your property.
Keep trees and shrubs with invasive roots away from sewer lines.
Final Thoughts
A sewer backup is more than a messy inconvenience—it’s a dangerous biohazard that can impact your health, safety, and property value. Attempting a DIY cleanup may save a few dollars initially, but the risks far outweigh the benefits.
For residents and businesses in Spokane, STOP Restoration Spokane is a trusted partner in handling sewer backups and other biohazard cleanup needs. With their expertise in water damage restoration, biohazard remediation, and emergency response, you can rest assured that your property will be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and restored.
When faced with a sewer backup, don’t take chances. Call STOP Restoration Spokane and let the professionals protect your health and restore your peace of mind.
FAQs:
1. What should I do first if I experience a sewer backup in my home?
If you notice sewage backing up, stop using all plumbing fixtures immediately to prevent further overflow. Keep people and pets away from the affected area, and call a professional like STOP Restoration Spokane right away for safe cleanup and restoration.
2. Why is sewer backup considered a biohazard?
Sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause serious illness. It also releases toxic gases and creates conditions for mold growth. Because of these dangers, sewage cleanup is classified as a biohazard and should only be handled by trained professionals.
3. Can I clean up a sewer backup myself with bleach?
No. While bleach can disinfect surfaces, it does not eliminate all pathogens, nor can it address hidden contamination inside walls, flooring, or HVAC systems. DIY cleanup is unsafe and often leads to long-term health and property damage issues.
4. What equipment do professionals use for sewer backup cleanup?
Companies like STOP Restoration Spokane use industrial pumps, moisture meters, air scrubbers, and hospital-grade disinfectants. They also wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure safety during the cleanup.
5. How quickly should a sewer backup be cleaned up?
Immediate response is critical. The longer sewage remains, the greater the health risks and structural damage. STOP Restoration Spokane offers 24/7 emergency services to address sewer backups as soon as they occur.
6. Will my homeowners insurance cover sewer backup cleanup?
Coverage varies by policy. Some homeowners insurance plans cover sewer backups, but often only if you’ve added a specific rider or endorsement. It’s best to check your policy and contact your provider. STOP Restoration Spokane can assist with insurance claims by providing detailed documentation.
7. What are common signs that my sewer line is at risk of backing up?
Warning signs include:
Frequent drain clogs
Gurgling sounds in toilets or drains
Foul odors coming from sinks or floor drains
Water backing up into tubs or showers when toilets are flushed
8. How can I prevent future sewer backups?
Preventive steps include not flushing wipes or grease, installing a backwater prevention valve, scheduling regular plumbing inspections, and keeping tree roots away from sewer lines.
9. Does sewer backup cleanup also include water damage restoration?
Yes. Since sewage causes water damage, restoration companies like STOP Restoration Spokane handle both. They remove contaminated water, sanitize affected areas, and repair or replace damaged building materials like drywall, flooring, and insulation.
10. Why should I choose STOP Restoration Spokane for sewer backup cleanup?
STOP Restoration Spokane is locally trusted for their expertise in biohazard cleanup, water damage restoration, and emergency response. They follow strict safety protocols, use advanced equipment, and work around the clock to restore your home or business quickly and safely.
