Commercial sewage backup cleanup in Sacramento, CA

Why is a sewage backup in a business an emergency?

Sewage can carry bacteria, viruses and other pathogens, and it reaches customers, staff and food areas quickly through foot traffic. Keep people out, close off the area and do not try to clean it with a mop. The IICRC S500 places sewage in Category 3, grossly contaminated water, which calls for protective equipment and controlled removal. A sewage backup in a restaurant, office or retail space is a health matter first, so commercial sewage cleanup keeps the affected area closed off until it has been cleaned and disinfected.

Which materials usually have to be removed?

Porous materials that absorbed sewage, such as carpet and padding, ceiling tile, insulation, and drywall that has wicked contaminated water, are commonly removed and disposed of. Non-porous surfaces like tile, sealed concrete and metal can usually be cleaned and disinfected. A technician sets the boundary by testing and observing how far the water went.

Who is responsible for the sewer line?

Typically a business is responsible for the private line serving its property, and the city or district for the public main, but that varies by property and agreement. A plumber with a camera can locate the blockage, and the answer affects who pays. We clean up the result; we do not clear or repair sewer lines.

When can the business reopen?

When cleanup is complete and the space is safe for the public. Food-service businesses should contact their local environmental health agency before reopening after a sewage event, since health codes may apply. Document the cleanup for your insurer; see business continuity & insurance claims.

Sewage is Category 3 water; the three categories of water damage explains what that means for cleanup. Lingering moisture can lead to mold, so see when mold starts after water damage. For homes, see sewage backup cleanup.

Commercial sewage cleanup: common questions