Can I Clean Up Sewage Backup Myself? 6 Reasons You Should Contact The Professionals

Are you wondering if you can tackle sewage backup cleanup on your own? In this blog will explore why leaving the sewage cleanup to the professionals is best. 

6 Reasons You Should Contact the Professionals

From health hazards and safety concerns to the specialized knowledge and equipment required, we’ll provide six compelling reasons why contacting professionals is the smart choice when dealing with sewage backup cleanup. 

1. Hiring Professionals Will Protect You from Health Risks:

Hiring professionals for sewage backup cleanup can protect you from health risks. Handling human waste or sewage can expose individuals to harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause severe illnesses and infections. 

Professionals have specialized knowledge, training, and equipment to safely handle and dispose of hazardous waste, minimizing the risk of exposure and contamination to the living environment and people.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, individuals should use waterproof gloves and rubber boots to prevent cuts and contact with human waste or sewage and avoid smoking or chewing tobacco or gum while handling sewage. 

Moreover, professionals follow regulatory guidelines and standards to protect themselves and others from exposure to hazardous materials. They wear protective gear, such as respirators, goggles, and gloves, to minimize the risk of contact with harmful pathogens during the cleanup process.

Additionally, professionals use industrial-grade disinfectants and specialized equipment to fully decontaminate the affected area and address any underlying problems that may have caused the sewage backup, ensuring a safe and healthy living environment.

2. Professionals have the Proper Equipment.

Professional sewage cleanup companies have specialized equipment designed to handle the unique challenges of sewage restoration. This equipment includes pumps, vacuums, dehumidifiers, air movers, and specialized cleaning and disinfection tools. 

These tools are often much more powerful and effective than the normal household cleaning tools that an average person might have, making them more capable of cleaning up the affected area efficiently and effectively.

This equipment is often not readily available at a regular store, and sometimes, it may have to be specially ordered. Professional-grade material is typically sold only to certified professionals and is not available to the general public. 

This is because the equipment used in sewage cleanup must adhere to specific laws and regulations regarding the disposal of contaminated materials. 

The EPA also specifies how sewage backup should be managed, cleaned, and disinfected, so professionals must undergo specialized training and certification before using the specialized equipment. Utilizing proper equipment and adhering to proper procedures ensures the sewage backup is handled safely and effectively.

Hiring professionals to handle sewage damage alleviates the burden of finding the appropriate equipment and tools necessary to address this unique type of damage. Professional companies have the necessary equipment readily available and will bring it to the site of the damage. 

Using specialized equipment also minimizes the risk to the homeowner of handling contaminated materials, making the process safer and more efficient overall.

3. Professionals Follow Safety Precautions You Might Not Know About.

Professionals specializing in sewage backup cleanup follow a range of safety precautions that may not be widely known to the general public. Here are some key safety measures that professionals take to ensure a safe and efficient cleanup process:

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Professionals wear specialized PPE, including gloves, masks or respirators, goggles, and protective suits. These protective gears are designed to safeguard them from direct contact with sewage and potential airborne contaminants.
2. Advanced Ventilation Systems: Professionals utilize advanced ventilation systems to maintain a flow of clean, fresh air while containing and removing hazardous odors and airborne pathogens. These systems help prevent the spread of contaminants into unaffected areas.
3. Proper Containment and Disposal: Professionals are trained in proper containment and disposal methods for sewage and sewage-contaminated materials. They use designated containers and follow strict protocols for transporting and disposing of waste in compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
4. Thorough Cleaning and Disinfection: Professionals employ specialized cleaning and disinfection techniques to ensure that all surfaces, materials, and items affected by sewage backup are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. They use industrial-strength disinfectants that effectively kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
5. Structural Drying and Restoration: In cases where water damage has occurred along with sewage backup, professionals have the knowledge and equipment to properly dry and restore the affected structures to prevent mold growth and other long-term issues.
6. Compliance with Health and Safety Regulations: Professionals stay up-to-date with local health and safety regulations, including guidelines set by organizations like the EPA.
   They follow industry standards and best practices to ensure compliance with all necessary regulations and to maintain the health and safety of everyone involved.

These safety precautions and practices go beyond what an average person may know or have access to. By hiring professionals for sewage backup cleanup, homeowners can have peace of mind knowing that experts will handle sewage restoration using the proper safety measures and protocols to protect their health and well-being.

4. Insurance Will Most Likely Be Involved.

Here’s what you can expect:

1. Sewage Backup Coverage: Sewage backup coverage is typically available as a rider or endorsement to a home insurance policy.
   This coverage helps protect against damages caused by sewage backup, such as property damage and cleanup costs. However, it’s important to review your policy and confirm whether this coverage is included or if you need to add it as an additional endorsement.
2. Coverage Limits and Deductibles: Sewage backup insurance coverage usually comes with coverage limits to cover personal property or structural damage caused by the backup. Additionally, there may be a separate deductible for sewer backup claims.
   It’s crucial to review and understand these limits and deductibles to ensure you have adequate coverage in case of a sewage backup incident.
3. Policy Terms and Conditions: It is essential to carefully review your insurance policy’s terms and conditions to understand the specific coverage and exclusions related to sewage backup. Consult with your insurance agent or representative to clarify what is covered and any applicable limitations or conditions.

It is always recommended to consult with insurance professionals or legal experts who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation. They can help you understand the legal and insurance implications of sewage backup and provide guidance on making proper claims or seeking compensation, if necessary.

5. Professionals Can Protect Your Property from More Damage.

When you hire professionals to handle sewage backup, they take several steps to protect your property from further damage.

1. Prompt Response: Professionals understand the urgency of sewage backup situations and respond promptly. They strive to arrive at your property quickly to assess the extent of the damage and implement necessary measures to prevent further damage.
2. Containment Measures: Professionals employ containment techniques to prevent the spread of sewage and contaminants to unaffected areas of your property. They may set up physical barriers and use specialized equipment to seal off contaminated areas, ensuring the damage is contained and does not escalate.
3. Water Extraction and Drying: If there is water damage along with the sewage backup, professionals use powerful pumps and extraction equipment to remove excess water from your property. They also employ industrial-strength dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the affected areas effectively, minimizing the risk of water-related issues like mold growth.
4. Structural Assessment: Professionals evaluate the damage caused by the sewage backup and check for any signs of structural compromise. They stabilize or reinforce the affected areas to prevent further deterioration if necessary.
5. Cleaning and Disinfection: Professionals perform comprehensive cleaning and disinfection to eliminate harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens from affected surfaces and items. They use specialized cleaning solutions and disinfectants that are safe and effective in sanitizing the affected areas, reducing the risk of contamination and potential health hazards.
6. Repairs and Restoration: Once the sewage cleanup process is complete, professionals can assist with repairing and restoring your property. They have the expertise to handle various maintenance, from replacing damaged flooring and walls to repairing plumbing systems, ensuring your property is restored to its pre-damage condition.

6. Professionals Can Ease the impact of Emotional and Psychological Stress.

Experiencing sewer damage can be emotionally and psychologically distressing. Professionals who handle sewer damage cleanup understand the impact it can have on individuals and are trained to provide support and assistance in managing the emotional aspect of the situation.

1. Empathy and Understanding: Professionals approach sewage restoration with empathy and understanding, acknowledging the emotional distress that homeowners may be going through. They take the time to listen and validate your concerns, providing reassurance and support.
2. Clear Communication: Professionals communicate openly and clearly, explaining the restoration process, timelines, and what to expect. Understanding the steps involved and having a clear plan helps alleviate anxiety and uncertainty.
3. Regular Updates: Professionals keep homeowners informed about the progress of the cleanup and restoration process. Providing regular updates and maintaining lines of communication open reduces anxiety and helps homeowners feel more involved and in control of the situation.
4. Personal Belongings: Professionals understand our emotional attachment to our personal belongings. They take care to handle and salvage items with sensitivity and respect.
5. Timely Restoration: Professionals’ prompt and efficient restoration of your property can help lessen psychological distress. Seeing progress and witnessing your home return to its pre-damage state can bring a sense of relief, providing a positive impact on your emotional well-being.
6. Guidance with Insurance Claims: Professionals can assist with navigating the insurance process, helping homeowners understand their coverage, and providing guidance on making claims. Having experts handle the paperwork and dealing with insurance companies can alleviate some of the stress associated with handling the financial aspect of the damage.

Sewage Backup Restoration With Western Disaster Clean Up

Don’t let sewage backup overwhelm you. Contact Western Disaster Clean Up today, and let our team of professionals handle the restoration process with expertise and efficiency. 

With our state-of-the-art equipment, industry knowledge, and compassionate service, we’ll restore your property to its pre-damage condition, giving you peace of mind. Call Western Disaster Clean Up now for reliable and comprehensive sewage backup restoration services. Not a phone person? Fill out our website form now.