The short answer
Health Risks of Raw Sewage
Raw sewage is a biohazard. It can contain bacteria like E. Coli and salmonella, plus viruses and parasites. Contact with skin or inhaling airborne particles can lead to infections, respiratory issues, or gastrointestinal illness. Children, elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable.
Even after visible waste is gone, germs linger on surfaces. Without proper disinfection, you risk spreading contamination through your home. If you feel unwell after any exposure, see a doctor. The safest approach is to avoid direct contact entirely and let the pros handle the cleanup.
When You Might Try It Yourself
A very small spill, like a few cups from a toilet overflow, might be manageable. You would need heavy-duty rubber gloves, boots, goggles, and a respirator with a P100 filter. Use disposable rags and a bleach solution for hard surfaces. But even then, the risk of cross-contamination is high.
If the sewage has soaked into drywall, carpet, or wood, do not attempt it. Porous materials absorb contamination and require removal. For any backup that covers more than a small area, or if you have any doubt, stop and call the pros. They have the equipment and training to handle it safely.
- Wear gloves, boots, goggles, and a respirator
- Ventilate the area with open windows and fans
- Use disposable cloths and discard them properly
- Disinfect with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water)
- Do not mix bleach with other cleaners
- Wash hands thoroughly after cleanup
Why Professional Cleanup Matters
Professional sewage cleanup involves more than wiping surfaces. The pros use industrial-grade disinfectants and equipment to remove all traces of contamination. They also handle the safe disposal of contaminated materials, which is not something you can just put in your trash.
They also know how to dry and restore the affected area to prevent secondary issues like mold growth. In a humid climate like Florida, moisture left behind can lead to mold problems. Hiring the pros reduces the risk of health issues and further damage to your home.
Steps to Take Right Now
If you have a sewage backup, act quickly. Turn off the water supply to stop the flow, if you can do so safely. Keep family members and pets away from the affected area. Open windows for ventilation, but do not use fans that might spread contaminated air.
Document the damage with photos for your insurance records. Then contact local water damage pros for an assessment. They can determine the extent of the contamination and the right course of action. Avoid walking through the affected area to prevent spreading germs. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Preventing Future Sewage Backups
Prevention starts with what goes down your drains. Do not flush wipes, grease, or paper towels, as these can clog pipes and cause backups. In coastal Florida, heavy rains can overwhelm sewer systems, so consider installing a backwater valve if you have frequent issues.
Regular maintenance of your plumbing can help. Have a plumber inspect your sewer lines periodically. Know where your main shutoff valve is located, and keep the area around it clear. Keep that location written down for emergencies. Taking these steps reduces the likelihood of a sewage incident.
Talk to someone now
Call (772) 758-7923 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (772) 758-7923Frequently asked questions
How quickly does sewage need to be cleaned up?
You should act within hours to minimize health risks and damage. Raw sewage is a biohazard, so the longer it sits, the more it soaks into surfaces. Call the pros as soon as you discover the problem. They can assess and begin cleanup promptly.
Can I just use bleach to clean sewage?
Bleach can disinfect hard surfaces, but it does not remove all organic matter. You must first remove all solid waste and then apply a strong disinfectant. For porous materials like drywall, bleach is not enough; those items often need to be removed and replaced. Professional cleanup is safer.
What should I do with contaminated items?
Do not throw contaminated items in your regular trash without proper handling. The pros can dispose of biohazardous waste according to local regulations. If you must handle items, wear protective gear and seal them in plastic bags. Your insurance company may have specific requirements, so check your policy.
More questions and answers
- How Do Pros Clean up a Sewage Backup in a Basement?
- How Do You Clean Smoke Damaged Kitchen Cabinets?
- How Do You Get Sewage Smell Out of a Finished Basement?
- How Much Does Sewage Backup Cleanup Actually Cost?
- What Causes a Sewage Backup Into a Home?
- Why Is Sewage Flood Water More Dangerous Than Rain?
- All articles