Warning signs
- Wastewater coming through a floor drain or fixture
- Multiple drains backing up together
- Strong sewage odour
- Contaminated water touching drywall or flooring
- Repeated gurgling followed by overflow
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24/7 Emergency Guide
Sewer Backups
Sewer water can contain harmful contaminants. The area should be isolated immediately, and porous materials may require controlled removal rather than ordinary cleaning.
What to do immediately
- 1Keep people and pets out of the area.
- 2Do not use sinks, toilets, showers, or washing machines.
- 3Avoid direct contact with contaminated water.
- 4Call your municipality or a licensed plumber to address the active sewer source.
Understand the situation
Common causes and what we assess
The visible damage is often only part of the problem. A proper response looks at where the issue began, what materials may be affected, and what must happen before repairs can safely start.
Common causes
- Blocked municipal or private sewer lines
- Backflow through floor drains or plumbing fixtures
- Heavy rainfall overwhelming drainage systems
- Damaged pipes, roots, or failed backwater protection
What we assess
- Confirm the active source has been stopped by the municipality or a licensed plumber
- Identify all surfaces and porous materials contacted by contaminated water
- Establish isolation and safe access requirements
- Determine what must be professionally cleaned and what must be removed
How we handle the damage
We first address the immediate condition, then develop a practical repair plan based on what is affected and which specialists are required.
Emergency response
- Isolation of the affected space
- Visible-damage documentation
- Identification of contaminated porous materials
- Removal planning after the source is controlled
- Preparation for cleaning and rebuilding
Repair and restoration
- Drywall, insulation, and trim replacement
- Subfloor and flooring repairs
- Cabinet or vanity repairs where affected
- Surface preparation, sealing, and painting
- Rebuilding after appropriate remediation
Important safety notice
Sewer backups are a contamination hazard. Source control and specialized sanitation may be required before renovation work can safely begin.
What not to do
- !Do not walk through contaminated water without proper protection
- !Do not use household fans that may spread contaminants
- !Do not use connected plumbing until the source is cleared
- !Do not keep contaminated drywall, insulation, carpet, or underlay in place
What happens after stabilization
Sanitation and source control must be completed before reconstruction. Once the area is cleared, damaged walls, insulation, trim, subfloors, and finishes can be rebuilt.
We provide a clear repair scope for the work within our role and coordinate licensed plumbing, electrical, structural, or environmental specialists when the condition requires them.
Not sure how serious the damage is?
Call and describe what you can safely see. We’ll help determine the appropriate next step and whether another emergency service must attend first.
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