How to Clean Up a Sewage Spill Under the House

Sewage spills in the basement and under the house can be dangerous, but there are ways to clean them up. First, remove any furniture or upholstered items that may be affected. Then, mop up any remaining liquid. After mopping up the liquid, disinfect the area with a bleach solution. You can make this solution at home by mixing 8 tablespoons of liquid household bleach with one gallon of water. Once the bleach has been applied to the surface, allow it to remain for at least 10 minutes.

Health risks

Sewage contains a number of pathogenic organisms that can infect humans. These organisms can cause severe illnesses such as polio, which can cause paralysis, blindness, and even death. Salmonella, another pathogen found in sewage, can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and a high fever. They are also harmful to animals.

To mitigate health risks, it’s best to contact a reputable drain cleaner to handle the cleanup. If the leak is due to a structural problem, a sewer repair company will be required.

Cost

The cost of cleaning up a sewage spill under a house can range from a few thousand dollars to over $50,000, depending on the extent of the damage. A general guideline is that the average cost per square foot of sewage spill is $7.00. The size of the spill and its location are determining factors for the cost.

Depending on the extent of the damage and the complexity of your septic system, cleaning a sewage spill may cost anywhere from $650 to $2,000. The cost to replace a septic tank can be over $5,000. Typically, however, these costs are relatively small compared to the expense of repairing a clogged drain or sewer pipe.

Professional cleanup

The first thing to do when dealing with a sewage spill under the house is to contact a professional cleaning company. Attempting to clean up a sewage spill on your own is not only hazardous but also time-consuming. You should also take pictures of the area so you can use them as proof for insurance claims. It is also important to clean the affected areas thoroughly and repair any appliances that may have been contaminated.

Sewage spills can have numerous causes, including tree roots that have invaded the pipes and drains. A broken drain pipe can also leak grey water, which is dangerous because it breeds bacteria. When this happens, the wood subfloor must be removed and the remaining surfaces cleaned and sanitized. A professional cleaning company that specializes in these types of spills will use specialized equipment to safely and efficiently clean the area.

Protective clothing

The most effective way to protect yourself when cleaning up a sewage spill under a house is to wear protective clothing. This includes rubber gloves, rubber boots, and a waterproof bodysuit. You can also use a face mask and goggles. Wearing protective clothing is essential, as the water from the sewage spill can contain dangerous microorganisms that can cause serious health problems. Also, make sure to wash your hands frequently with anti-viral disinfectants.

Whether it’s a sewage spill inside your house or a leak in the sewer line, protective clothing should always be worn. This is because sewage contains disease-causing agents, including bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses. You can get sick by touching the contaminated areas or smelling them. If you’re exposed to sewage, make sure to put on protective clothing, and stay away from the area until the water is completely dry.

Hazards

In addition to the health hazards involved with sewage spills, there are also environmental concerns to take into account. The odor is extremely unpleasant, and sewage can turn into airborne contaminants. The fumes can cause respiratory problems and headaches. Sewage also contains pathogens, and regular detergents and soaps may not be enough to remove these contaminants. Even if the sewage spill is contained, it can spread through the air, and electrical appliances can also be affected.

Whether you’re cleaning up a toilet backup or a septic tank spill, there are a variety of hazards to consider. Sewage is classified as Category 3 water, or “Black Water.” These contaminants contain harmful microbes that can cause illness, including acute illness. This contamination can be life-threatening, especially to senior citizens, infants, and children. It can also lead to mold growth, which can cause respiratory problems.