**What Happens When Sewer Backs Up in House?** A sewage backup, also known as a sewer overflow, is when raw or partially treated sewage flows out of a building's drainage system. This can happen for a variety of reasons, and the consequences can be significant. **Causes of Sewage Backups** * **Blockages:** Grease, hair, wipes, and other non-flushable items can form clogs in pipes, leading to a sewage backup. * **Tree roots:** Tree roots can grow into and damage sewer lines, causing breaks or blockages. * **Heavy rainfall:** Excessive rainfall can overwhelm the sewer system, causing sewage to back up into homes. * **Failing septic systems:** Septic systems that are not properly maintained or overloaded can malfunction, causing sewage to back up in the home. **Effects of Sewage Backups** * **Health hazards:** Sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause a variety of illnesses, including gastrointestinal issues, rashes, and respiratory infections. * **Structural damage:** Sewage can damage flooring, walls, and furniture, leading to costly repairs. * **Unpleasant odors:** Sewage backups emit strong, unpleasant odors that can make homes uninhabitable. * **Psychological distress:** Dealing with a sewage backup can be a stressful and traumatic experience. **Importance of Professional Sewage Cleanup Service** If you experience a sewage backup, it's critical to seek professional sewage cleanup services immediately. Attempting to clean up the mess yourself can be dangerous and ineffective. Trained professionals have the equipment and expertise to: * **Safely remove sewage:** Using protective gear and specialized equipment, they will remove sewage from your home. * **Disinfect the affected area:** They will thoroughly disinfect the affected area to eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses. * **Repair or replace damaged plumbing:** If necessary, they will repair or replace damaged plumbing to prevent future backups. * **Restore your home to a safe and habitable condition:** Once the cleanup is complete, they will restore your home to a clean and safe environment.