Protect Your Home From Sewer Backups

Sewer backups occur when something blocks the normal flow of wastewater from your home to the city’s sewer system, causing sewage to back up into your house.

Look for these signs

Here are some signs that your house has a clogged sewer drain:

• • • When a piece of plumbing is used (e.g., a toilet), water backs up somewhere else in the house.
    • More than one drain in your house is clogged.
    • There’s a foul smell coming from your drains.
    • There’s seepage at your basement floor drains.

Potential causes of sewer backup

There are several potential causes of sewer backups, including aging sewer systems, broken or collapsed sewer lines, tree roots entering sewer lines and sump pump failure. Luckily, there are a few simple things you can do to help prevent sewer backups. Consider these best practices:

• • • Throw grease and other clog-causing materials (e.g., bacon fat, coffee grinds and food waste) in the garbage, not down the sink.
    • Don’t flush paper towels, wipes (including flushable wipes), diapers or feminine hygiene products.
    • Install a backwater prevention valve on your sewer line to allow sewage out, but not back into, your home.
    • Use your garbage disposal correctly, running water to wash food waste down the drain.
    • Have a landscaping professional periodically trim the roots of nearby trees.

Take these steps if it does occur

Even with proper care, sewer backups may still occur. If you notice a sewer backup in your home, immediately follow these steps:

• • • Wet vacuum affected areas to clean and remove spillage.
    • Mop floors and wipe walls with soap and disinfectant.
    • Steam clean or throw away soiled carpets or drapes.
    • Have a plumbing professional inspect your drain using a sewer camera and make necessary repairs.

To discuss coverage options, claims concerns or more tips on protecting your home contact us today.