Flushed... Not so Far Away: How to Clean up a Sewer Line Leak

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

sewage pipes where sewage damage can occur in commercial buildings in Tallahassee.

Flushed... Not so Far Away: How to Clean up a Sewer Line Leak and Why you Should Call SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee

Even a small sewer line leak can turn into a major issue quickly. Make sure you keep reading this guide to learn how to clean up the mess.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, people are seeing a 25 percent increase in plumbing issues due to more frequent use. One of these common problems is a sewage backup or a sewer line leak. 

Not only can these types of leaks cause serious damage, but they can also cause bring major contaminants into your home. 

If you own a home, small business, or restaurant, you need to know the best ways to spot signs of a sewer line leak and how to clean up effectively. 

Here is your quick guide on everything you need to know about fixing a sewer line leak and the following clean-up. 

See if You Can Stop the Leak 

If you come upon a plumbing failure like a sewer line leak, first try to see if you can safely stop it. Turn off the water to the entire house. This will prevent further leakage. 

If you can, try to determine where the leak is coming from. Is the main sewer line leaking or is it happening somewhere else? Calling a professional who specializes in sewer line leak repair can help you identify the source of the leak to better inform the clean-up. 

Take Picture for Your Insurance Company

A critical part of any sewer line leak clean-up process is to take pictures for your insurance company. Take pictures of any damage caused by the leak, including to the walls, floors, and furniture. 

The Importance of Cleaning and Sanitizing

If you have a sewer line leak, clean-up and sanitization are critical. Bacteria and other contaminants can cause infection or illness if not cleaned properly. 

If the resulting mess is relatively small and you can manage the clean-up, first try to mop up or wet-vac any excess water. Wear protective gloves and shoes. Use hot, soapy water to clean off any surface the water from the leak touched. 

Do your best not to track the water into other parts of your home not affected by the leak. You do not want to spread any contaminants any farther. 

If the sewer line leak is extensive, you need to call a professional team to clean and sanitize your home effectively. 

Need to Clean a Sewer Line Leak Fast? 

Whether you have a sewer line leak in a yard or indoors, it is critical that you fix it fast and begin the clean-up process. While you should try to clean the best you can, calling a professional team can help give your house a deep clean that will give you peace of mind. 

If you suspect you have a sewer line leak, be sure to reach out and give us a call here at SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee. In addition to fire and water cleanup and restoration, we can help you fix a sewer line leak fast before it can cause any further damage. 

Reach out and give us a call to get help cleaning up your mess today.