The short answer
Safety First
Turn off power to the flooded rooms at the breaker panel before you touch anything. If water is near outlets or appliances, do not step into it. Also shut off the water supply to stop the flow if the backup came from your plumbing.
Open windows for ventilation, but keep children and pets away. Wear rubber boots, heavy gloves, and an N95 mask. Sewage contains bacteria and viruses, so avoid skin contact. If you feel unwell, see a doctor.
- Shut off electricity and water
- Ventilate the space
- Wear protective gear
- Keep kids and pets out
- Do not use fans that blow air into living areas
Remove Standing Water
Use a wet-dry vacuum or a pump to extract as much water as possible. Be careful with electrical equipment in wet conditions. If the water is deep, wait for the pros to handle extraction safely.
Dispose of solid waste in heavy plastic bags. Double-bag everything and seal tightly. Do not flush anything else down the toilet. The goal is to remove all contaminated material before cleaning surfaces.
Discard Porous Items
Carpet, padding, drywall, insulation, and upholstered furniture that soaked up sewage cannot be saved. Cut and remove the affected drywall at least 12 inches above the water line. Bag these items for disposal.
Hard surfaces like tile, concrete, and metal can be cleaned if they are not severely damaged. Wood flooring and cabinets may be salvageable if dried quickly, but sewage contamination often ruins them. When in doubt, throw it out.
- Carpet and padding
- Drywall and insulation
- Upholstered furniture
- Mattresses and pillows
- Paper goods and cardboard
- Food that touched sewage
Clean and Sanitize
Wash all hard surfaces with hot water and a heavy-duty degreaser, then apply a disinfectant that kills bacteria and viruses. Use a solution of one part bleach to ten parts water for non-porous surfaces, but never mix bleach with ammonia.
Pay attention to baseboards, door frames, and any cracks. Let the disinfectant sit for at least ten minutes before rinsing. Dry the area completely with dehumidifiers and air movers to prevent mold growth, which thrives in damp conditions.
If you live in Rogers, keep your shutoff valve location written down for future emergencies. A sewer backup often affects multiple rooms, so check adjacent areas for hidden moisture.
When to Call the Pros
Sewage cleanup is hazardous and requires specialized equipment. The pros have industrial-grade pumps, dehumidifiers, and antimicrobial treatments that go beyond household cleaners. They also know how to inspect walls and floors for hidden contamination.
Your insurance policy may cover some costs, but coverage depends on the cause and your specific plan. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Act quickly, because delays increase damage and health risks.
The pros typically handle extraction, sanitation, and drying, and they can also clean salvageable contents. For items that are borderline, ask for advice before discarding.
- Deep water that is difficult to pump
- Large affected areas
- Sewage has soaked into walls or floors
- You have health concerns or a weakened immune system
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (479) 370-1500Frequently asked questions
Can I clean up a sewer backup myself?
Small spills on hard surfaces might be manageable with proper gear, but sewage is a biohazard. If the area is large, porous, or has soaked into drywall, call the pros. They have the right equipment to sanitize and dry thoroughly.
How long does sewage cleanup take?
The time depends on the extent of the damage and how quickly you act. Extraction may take a few hours, while drying can take several days. The pros can give you a realistic timeline after assessing the situation.
Will my insurance cover sewer backup cleanup?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Many standard policies exclude sewer backup unless you have a specific endorsement. Check your policy and contact your insurer to understand your coverage and what steps they require.