Main Line Clogs
Grease, wipes and tree roots in the sewer line force wastewater back up through the lowest drains in the building, often a floor drain, shower or toilet.
24/7 Emergency Restoration
Sewage Backup Cleanup
A sewage backup is a health hazard, not just a mess. Our IICRC-certified team responds 24/7 to remove contaminated water, take out affected materials, sanitize the structure and dry it properly, so your home or business is safe to use again.
24/7Answered, 365
60minTarget on site
IICRCCertified crews
Disaster Happens.
Safe, Thorough Sewage Cleanup in the Upstate
Sewage water is classified as Category 3, or black water, under IICRC standards. It carries bacteria, viruses and other contaminants that soak into anything porous it touches. That is why sewage cleanup is different from a clean water leak: carpet, pad, drywall and insulation that were contaminated have to be removed, not just dried, and every remaining surface must be cleaned and treated. Willard's Restoration handles the whole job, from protective equipment and containment to final drying and repairs, and documents it for your insurance company.
Common Causes of Sewage Backups
Heavy Rain
During heavy storms, overloaded municipal lines can push wastewater back into homes and businesses through floor drains and fixtures.
Septic System Failures
A full or failing septic tank or drain field can back up into the home, especially in rural parts of the Upstate where septic systems are common.
Our process
Our Sewage Cleanup Process
Sewage cleanup has to be done in the right order so contamination does not spread to the rest of the property. Our process:
- 01
Safety and Containment
We assess the affected area, stop HVAC airflow from it where needed and set up containment so contaminants are not tracked into clean rooms. Our technicians work in full protective equipment.
- 02
Extraction and Removal
Contaminated water is extracted, and the porous materials it reached, such as carpet, pad, drywall and insulation, are removed and disposed of properly.
- 03
Cleaning and Disinfection
All remaining surfaces are cleaned and treated with EPA-registered antimicrobials to address the bacteria left behind.
- 04
Drying
Air movers and dehumidifiers dry the structure, with moisture readings logged until every material is back to dry standard.
- 05
Repairs and Documentation
We replace what was removed and provide photos, moisture logs and an itemized scope for your insurance claim.
All sewage cleanup work follows IICRC S500 Category 3 guidelines by IICRC-certified technicians.
Reviews
What Our Customers Are Saying
Words cannot express how grateful I am to have found Willard's Restoration to help us urgently address flooding in our basement following recent heavy rains. I called numerous companies who either could not come to us for some time or were downright rude when I asked for at least a ballpark estimate for such services. Anthony and Cassie returned my calls promptly and offered to come out quickly. They helped me manage the situation with their own services and referrals. They were quite knowledgeable, professional, courteous, reliable. I have not needed this type of service before, but will not hesitate to call on them again and/or refer others to them who might need similar help. Thank you!!
Cindy J
Very thorough and helpful through the entire repair and remediation process! Willard Restoration worked alongside us with our insurance to complete repairs. They went above and beyond to make the process easier for us. Highly recommend them for anyone with water damage or remediation needs.
Ann F
We have used Willard's Restoration & Cleaning three times now, twice to test for moisture levels/make sure there was no growth in a couple places and once for water restoration following a major kitchen leak. Anthony did excellent work and helped us navigate the insurance claim following the leak so we had much less stress and worry. He diligently worked in our home until the moisture levels were back to normal which gave us such peace of mind. We couldn't be more satisfied with the work, the value, and the confidence in knowing our home has been well taken care of. We've given his business card to several friends and will continue to recommend Willard's to anyone!
Hank
When experiencing water damage and countless people at our home saying yes you have a problem and no we can't help. I was discouraged, and frustrated. Until Willard's arrived and took the time to look into the issues and identify teams that could help and how they could help. They have been there through the whole process. Anthony and Cassie are a great team and knowledgeable on what to expect regarding the process and insurance companies lingo. They have restored our home for sure! I highly recommend them for your needs. You are in good hands here and your home will thank you. Sincerely grateful.
Leslie D
Water Damage Restoration
Not every water loss is sewage. If you are dealing with a supply line leak, a burst pipe or storm water, our water damage restoration team extracts the water, dries the structure and completes the repairs.
Need help with your insurance claim?
We work directly with your insurance company and document everything your adjuster needs: photos, moisture readings and an itemized scope.
Answers
Sewage Cleanup FAQs
Is it safe to clean up a sewage backup myself?
We do not recommend it. Sewage carries bacteria and viruses that can make people sick, and household cleaners do not reach contamination that has soaked into porous materials. Keep children and pets away from the area and call a professional.
What should I do right after a sewage backup?
Stop using water in the building, including toilets, sinks and washing machines, so more wastewater is not pushed into the home. Stay out of the affected area, turn off power to it if you can do so safely, and take photos for your insurance company.
Can carpet be saved after a sewage backup?
Carpet and pad contaminated by sewage should be removed and discarded. Hard surfaces like tile, concrete and sealed wood can often be cleaned and disinfected.
Does insurance cover sewage backups?
Many homeowners policies exclude sewer backup unless a specific endorsement was added. Check your policy or ask your agent. We document the cause and extent of the damage either way.
Do you fix the sewer line too?
We clean up and restore the damage. The clog or line failure itself should be repaired by a licensed plumber, and we are happy to work alongside yours.
How long does sewage cleanup take?
Removal and disinfection usually happen in the first day or two, followed by several days of drying. Repairs take longer depending on what had to be removed. We give you a timeline after the initial assessment.
Still have questions?
If you still have questions, don't hesitate to reach out to us!
Get Started
Schedule Your Restoration Estimate Today
- Emergency response when timing matters
- Detailed property damage assessment
- Clear next-step restoration plan