The short answer
Health Risks from Sewage Exposure
Sewage is classified as Category 3 water damage, meaning it is grossly contaminated. It can contain bacteria like E. Coli, viruses, parasites, and chemical contaminants. Exposure can occur through the air you breathe, contact with contaminated surfaces, or accidental ingestion. This can lead to gastrointestinal illness, skin infections, respiratory issues, and other serious diseases.
The health risks are higher for children, the elderly, and anyone with a compromised immune system. Even brief exposure can be problematic. Because these pathogens become airborne during disturbance and cleaning, the entire affected area becomes a potential hazard. Staying elsewhere eliminates this direct exposure risk for the duration of the cleanup and drying process.
What Happens During Professional Cleanup
Local water damage pros follow a strict protocol for sewage cleanup. The process begins with extracting the contaminated water and removing unsalvageable porous materials like carpet and drywall. Then they use industrial-grade air scrubbers and dehumidifiers to dry the structure thoroughly, which prevents secondary mold growth.
The final and most critical step is sanitization. The pros apply EPA-registered disinfectants to all affected surfaces to kill remaining pathogens. This entire process often requires containment with plastic sheeting to prevent cross-contamination to other parts of your home. The work area is not safe for occupancy until this full cycle is finished.
Essential Safety Steps If You Must Enter
In some cases, you may need to briefly re-enter to retrieve essential items like important documents. If you must go in, take extreme precautions. Always coordinate this with the pros on-site first, as they can advise on the safest timing and entry point to avoid disrupting their containment barriers.
Wear proper personal protective equipment, which the pros use and can sometimes provide. This includes waterproof boots, gloves, goggles, and an N95 respirator mask or better. Do not enter in regular clothing or shoes. After leaving the area, immediately wash your hands and any exposed skin thoroughly with soap and warm water.
- Coordinate entry with the pros for safe timing.
- Wear waterproof boots, gloves, and eye protection.
- Use an N95 respirator mask at minimum.
- Avoid touching your face while inside.
- Do not bring children or pets into the area.
- Shower and change clothes immediately after exiting.
Planning for Temporary Relocation
Since you cannot stay, make a plan for where you will go. Options include staying with family or friends, booking a hotel, or renting a short-term accommodation. Consider the needs of all household members, including pets. Keep essential items like chargers, a change of clothes, and toiletries packed and ready in your vehicle.
The duration of your stay away depends on the extent of the damage. A small, contained toilet overflow may be resolved in a day or two, while a major sewer backup affecting multiple rooms can take several days to a week. The local water damage pros can give you a realistic timeline after their initial assessment.
Insurance and Professional Restoration
If you have homeowners insurance, contact your agent promptly to start a claim. Sewage backup is a specific peril, and coverage is not always automatic. You will need to document the damage with photos and keep receipts for any expenses related to your temporary relocation, as these may be reimbursable. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
The restoration work itself is typically handled by the pros you hire. They will provide detailed documentation of the damage and the work performed, which you can submit to your insurance adjuster. Your role is to facilitate communication between the pros and your insurance company to ensure the claim process moves forward smoothly.
Water damage does not wait
Call (405) 565-9833 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
How long will I need to stay out of my home?
The timeline depends on the sewage source and affected area. A small, contained overflow may take 24 to 48 hours. Extensive flooding in a basement or living area often requires three to seven days for proper drying and sanitization. Your pros will provide an estimated schedule after inspection.
Can my pets stay home during sewage cleanup?
No, pets should also vacate the premises. They are vulnerable to the same pathogens and can track contamination throughout the home. It is safest to board them or have them stay with you at your temporary location until the cleanup is fully complete and the area is safe.
What if I cannot afford a hotel while waiting?
Check your homeowners insurance policy, as it may include coverage for additional living expenses. This provision can help pay for hotel stays, meals, and other costs if your home is uninhabitable. You can discuss payment options with the pros. Some community organizations may offer temporary assistance. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.