The short answer
Health Risks of Sewage
Sewage is not just dirty water. It carries pathogens like E. Coli, hepatitis, and parasites that can infect you through skin contact, inhalation, or accidental ingestion. Even dried sewage can release harmful particles into the air, especially if you sweep or use a fan.
Symptoms of exposure include nausea, diarrhea, skin irritation, and respiratory issues. If you feel unwell after any contact, see a doctor. The pros use respirators, gloves, and eye protection, and they follow strict protocols to avoid cross-contamination in your home.
What You Need to Clean Safely
If you decide to tackle a very small spill, you need heavy-duty rubber gloves, boots, a respirator with P100 filters, and eye goggles. You also need a hospital-grade disinfectant that kills bacteria and viruses. Regular household cleaners are not enough.
You must remove all porous materials like carpet, drywall, and upholstery that came into contact with sewage. These cannot be cleaned; they must be discarded. Non-porous surfaces like tile and metal can be washed and disinfected, but you must do it thoroughly and let them dry completely.
- Wear protective gear: gloves, boots, goggles, respirator
- Use a disinfectant labeled for sewage or biohazard
- Remove and bag all porous materials in sealed plastic
- Wash non-porous surfaces with hot water and detergent first
- Disinfect after cleaning, then allow to air dry for 24 hours
- Dispose of waste and gloves properly, not in regular trash
When to Call the Pros
For any spill larger than a small puddle, or if sewage has soaked into drywall, flooring, or has spread to multiple rooms, call the pros. They have industrial equipment to extract water, dry structures, and sanitize areas you cannot reach. They also know how to handle contaminated materials safely.
The pros follow industry guidelines for sewage cleanup, which includes testing for moisture and ensuring the area is truly safe. They can also identify hidden areas where sewage might have seeped, like under baseboards or into subflooring. Attempting a large cleanup yourself can leave behind health hazards that are not visible.
Costs and Considerations
Professional sewage cleanup typically costs between $500 and $5,000, but the final price depends on the extent of the damage, the affected materials, and the time required. For example, a small bathroom spill might be on the lower end, while a flooded basement with soaked drywall will be higher.
Your insurance policy might cover sewage cleanup, but that depends on your specific coverage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy for sewage or water damage clauses, and document everything with photos and receipts. If you have a claim, keep records of all expenses.
Preventing Future Spills
To reduce the risk of future sewage backups, avoid flushing items like wipes, grease, or paper towels. Have a plumber inspect your main sewer line periodically for tree roots or blockages. If you live in Layton, keep the location of your cleanout valve written down so you can access it quickly in an emergency.
If you notice slow drains or gurgling sounds, address them early before a full backup occurs. Installing a backwater valve can prevent sewage from entering your home during heavy rains, but this requires a plumber. Regular maintenance of your plumbing system is your right defense against a messy and hazardous spill.
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Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
Can I clean a small sewage spill with bleach?
Bleach alone is not enough. You need a disinfectant that is effective against bacteria and viruses, and you must clean the surface first. For porous materials, bleach cannot penetrate deeply, so those must be discarded. Always wear protective gear and ventilate the area.
How long does sewage cleanup take?
The time depends on the size of the spill and the materials affected. A small spill might take a few hours, but larger ones can take days, especially if drying is needed. The pros have equipment to speed up drying, but you should not rush the process to avoid mold growth.
What should I do with contaminated furniture?
Any upholstered furniture, mattresses, or pillows that touched sewage should be discarded. Hard furniture like wood or metal can be cleaned if the surface is non-porous, but you must disinfect thoroughly. If in doubt, throw it out to avoid health risks.