Never attempt to clean up raw sewage spillage by yourself. Sewage is highly toxic, containing bacteria, viruses, parasites, and gases that pose serious health risks. Known as "black water" or category 3 water damage, it must be handled by professionals. If you are experiencing a sewage backup, it is best to give Green State Restoration a call. We are experts in sewage cleanup and follow a thorough process:

1. Initial Assessment and Safety Measures:  Upon arrival, our first priority is to assess the extent of the sewage contamination and establish safety protocols. Our technicians wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to safeguard against harmful pathogens present in sewage. We also cordon off contaminated areas to prevent cross-contamination and ensure the safety of all occupants. Utilizing advanced moisture detection tools and thermal imaging , we meticulously inspect affected areas to determine the scope of contamination and document all findings for insurance and restoration purposes.
2. Removal of Sewage and Contaminated Materials:  Once the initial assessment is completed, our team begins the critical process of extracting sewage and removing contaminated materials. High-powered pumps and industrial-grade vacuums are employed to remove standing sewage efficiently. Contaminated items, including carpets, flooring, drywall, and furnishings, are carefully removed and disposed of according to health and safety regulations. This step is essential to eliminate immediate health hazards and prepare the area for comprehensive cleaning.
3. Cleaning and Sanitizing: Following the removal of contaminated materials, we implement a rigorous cleaning and sanitizing regimen. All affected surfaces are meticulously scrubbed and treated with hospital-grade disinfectants to eradicate bacteria, viruses, and parasites. This process not only cleans but also sanitizes the area, ensuring it is safe for habitation. Our cleaning protocols conform to IICRC standards, ensuring that all biohazards are neutralized.
4. Drying and Dehumidifying : After cleaning and sanitizing, the next vital phase is drying and dehumidifying the affected areas. We deploy high-efficiency air movers and dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry the environment, preventing the growth of mold and mildew. Moisture levels are continuously monitored using hygrometers and thermal imaging to ensure complete dryness. This step is crucial in restoring a healthy indoor environment and avoiding secondary water damage.
5. Restoration and Final Inspection: The final stage involves restoring the property to its pre-damage condition. This can include replacing drywall, reinstalling flooring, and conducting any necessary structural repairs. Once restoration is complete, we conduct a final inspection to ensure that all remediation efforts meet our stringent quality standards. Our project managers will walk you through the restored area, addressing any concerns and ensuring complete satisfaction with the results.

Understanding the common causes of sewage backup can help in preventing future incidents. Some of the most frequent causes include:

1. Blockages in Sewer Lines:  Accumulation of debris, grease, or foreign objects can block sewer lines, causing backups that usually come up through toilets, bathtubs, and sinks.
2. Tree Root Intrusion: Tree roots can infiltrate sewer pipes through cracks, growing over time to block the pipe and cause sewage backups.
3. Aging Infrastructure:  Older sewer systems and septic tanks are more prone to damage and require regular maintenance and upgrades to avoid backups.
4. Heavy Rainfall and Flooding: Excess water during heavy rainfall or flooding can overwhelm the sewer system, leading to backups.
5. Structural Damage: Physical damage to sewer pipes, such as cracks or fractures, often caused by settling soil or earthquakes, can result in sewage backups.
6. Inadequate Septic System Maintenance: Regular maintenance and pumping of septic systems are essential to prevent backups.