How to Survive a Sewer Back Up

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

Do you know what to do in this situation?

You've just noticed water in your home and discover the source is your backed-up toilet, now what??

1.  Rapid Response

The risk of harmful bacteria in your home or business is a time sensitive issue and should be addressed ASAP. Containment is necessary to preventing extensive damage. Contact a professional cleaning team to immediately respond to the contaminated area.

2. Proper Sterilization

Water from a sewer backup is dangerous, so do not attempt a sewer back-up cleanup on your own. Specific techniques and safety equipment are needed to ensure appropriate removal of all hazardous bacteria. Contamination levels of the water may vary and require a customized sterilization process.

3. Sufficient Drying Time

Allowing adequate drying time after the water has been removed helps prevent the growth of mold and stop further damage to your home. Depending on the amount and duration of the water exposure, drying can often take days. It may also be required to remove carpet, flooring or sub floor.

4. Moving Forward

Repairing your property after a sewer cleanup can be a huge project, and keeping good documentation can aid in a speedy recovery. Having current pictures of your home prior to an accident is highly recommended. These records can help insurance companies easily identify which areas were affected to help any claims move forward quicker.

SERVPRO of Gurnee understands the stress and worry that comes with water damage and the disruption it causes your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

Do not hesitate to call us at 847-557-1080.