**Sewage Backup Causes and Effects**
A sewage backup, also known as a sewer backup, occurs when wastewater from your home’s plumbing system flows backward into your home. This can lead to a range of unpleasant and potentially hazardous consequences:
**Causes of Sewage Backups**
* **Clogged Drainpipes:** Grease, hair, and other debris can accumulate in drainpipes, restricting water flow and leading to backups.
* **Tree Root Intrusions:** Tree roots can penetrate sewer lines, causing blockages and backups.
* **Broken Sewer Lines:** Pipes can crack or break, allowing wastewater to leak out and back up into your home.
* **Improperly Installed Septic Tanks:** Septic tanks that are not properly designed, installed, or maintained can cause backups.
* **Heavy Rainfall:** Excessive rainfall can overwhelm sewer systems, causing backups in homes that are connected to the system.
**Effects of Sewage Backups**
* **Property Damage:** Sewage backups can damage your home’s structure, flooring, and furniture.
* **Health Hazards:** Sewage contains harmful bacteria and viruses that can pose health risks to your family.
* **Unpleasant Odors:** Sewage backups emit foul odors that can permeate your home.
* **Contaminated Water:** Backup water can contaminate your drinking water, making it unsafe to consume.
* **Increased Risk of Flooding:** Sewage backups can increase the risk of flooding in your home, as the backup water can escape from toilets, sinks, and other plumbing fixtures.
**What Happens When Sewage Backs Up in House?**
* **Immediate Actions:** If you experience a sewage backup, it’s important to take immediate action to minimize the damage and potential health risks. Turn off the water supply to your home and call a professional Sewage Cleanup Service.
* **Professional Cleanup:** Sewage Cleanup Services will remove the backup water and thoroughly clean and disinfect your home. They will also identify and repair the underlying cause of the backup to prevent future occurrences.
* **Insurance Considerations:** Sewage backups are typically covered by most homeowner’s insurance policies. Contact your insurance company to report the damage and file a claim.