Key takeaways
- Stop using water immediately.
- Avoid contact with wastewater.
- Document damage for insurance.
- Camera the line to find the cause.
Stop using water
Do not run sinks, showers, dishwashers or washing machines. Every gallon you add can end up on the floor.
Stay safe
Sewage carries bacteria. Keep children and pets away, wear gloves and boots if you must enter, and avoid electrical hazards near standing water.
Document everything
Take photos and video of the damage before cleanup. Check your homeowner's policy for sewer-backup coverage and contact your insurer.
Find the cause
A backup is a symptom. A camera inspection finds whether it is a clog, roots, a collapse or a cracked pipe, so the repair fixes the real problem.
Related services
Ready for a firm answer on your own pipe? Try the Pipe Problem Finder or call 800-224-9245 for a free camera inspection.