Discovering sewage backing up into your basement is one of the most stressful situations a homeowner can face. The water may look similar to floodwater, but sewage contamination introduces serious health risks.
Sewage backups often occur during heavy storms, due to sewer line blockages, or as a result of plumbing failures. When contaminated water enters a basement, it can spread bacteria and pathogens throughout the space and damage building materials.
Across Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, including Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, Glenview, Northbrook, Deerfield, Arlington Heights, Schaumburg, and Palatine, basement sewage backups are most common after severe rainfall events that overwhelm municipal sewer systems.
Knowing what to do immediately after a sewage backup can help reduce health risks and prevent further property damage.
ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons provides 24-hour emergency restoration services across Chicago, the North Shore, Lake County, and DuPage County. If your basement experiences a sewage backup, call (773) 985-6394 immediately for assistance.
Quick Takeaways for Chicago Homeowners
Sewage contamination is classified as Category 3 water damage
Contact with contaminated water should be avoided
Porous materials like carpet and drywall often must be removed
Professional sanitation and drying are required
Fast cleanup helps prevent mold growth and structural damage
Step 1: Avoid Contact With Contaminated Water
Sewage water contains bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms.
Direct contact with contaminated water can lead to:
gastrointestinal illness
skin infections
respiratory irritation
Children and pets should be kept away from the affected area until cleanup is complete.
Step 2: Turn off the electricity if the water is rising
If standing water is approaching electrical outlets or appliances, the power to the basement should be shut off if it can be done safely.
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, so avoid entering flooded areas where electrical hazards may exist.
Step 3: Stop the Source of the Backup
If possible, identify the cause of the sewage backup.
Common sources include:
Stopping the flow of contaminated water can help limit the amount of damage inside the basement.
Step 4: Ventilate the Area
Opening basement windows can help reduce strong odors and improve air circulation. However, ventilation alone will not eliminate contamination.
Professional cleaning and disinfection are still required to restore safe conditions.
Step 5: Contact a Professional Restoration Company
Sewage backups involve Category 3 contaminated water, which requires specialized cleanup procedures.
Professional restoration teams use:
These measures protect both the home and the people inside it.
What Happens During Sewage Cleanup
Professional sewage cleanup typically involves several steps.
Containment
Plastic barriers isolate contaminated areas to prevent the spread of bacteria and airborne particles.
Removal of contaminated materials
Porous materials such as carpeting, drywall, and insulation often cannot be safely disinfected and must be removed.
Disinfection
Professional disinfectants eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
Structural drying
Air movers and dehumidifiers remove moisture to prevent mold growth.
Why Sewage Backups Can Lead to Mold Problems
Sewage water introduces both contamination and moisture into building materials.
If the area is not dried quickly, mold can begin growing inside:
drywall
insulation
wood framing
flooring systems
Mold may begin developing within 24–48 hours after the backup.
Restoration Services Available for Chicago Homes
ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons provides comprehensive restoration services throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.
Water Damage Restoration
Rapid water removal and structural drying help prevent additional damage and mold growth.
https://www.servicemasterrestore.com/~/servicemaster-restoration-by-simons/residential/water-damage/
Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration
Fire damage can spread soot and smoke contamination throughout a home.
https://www.servicemasterrestore.com/~/servicemaster-restoration-by-simons/residential/fire-and-smoke-damage/
Mold Remediation
Professional mold remediation removes contamination and restores safe indoor conditions.
https://www.servicemasterrestore.com/~/servicemaster-restoration-by-simons/residential/mold/
Specialty Cleaning Services
Biohazard and specialty cleanup services are available for complex contamination events.
https://www.servicemasterrestore.com/~/servicemaster-restoration-by-simons/residential/specialty-services/
Why Chicago Homeowners Trust ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons
ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons has helped homeowners recover from water damage, mold contamination, and sewage backups across Chicago, the North Shore, Lake County, and DuPage County for more than 40 years.
I personally hold the IICRC’s highest restoration certifications:
Master Fire Restorer
Master Water Restorer
Master Textile Restorer
IICRC Certification #: 137718
Our crews respond to restoration emergencies throughout Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glenview, Northbrook, Deerfield, Arlington Heights, Schaumburg, and Palatine.
If Your Basement Experiences a Sewage Backup
Sewage contamination should be addressed immediately to protect both your property and your health.
ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons provides 24-hour emergency restoration services throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.
Call (773) 985-6394 anytime for immediate assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to stay in a house with sewage backup?
It is best to avoid affected areas until professional cleanup is completed because sewage contains harmful bacteria and pathogens.
Can I clean sewage contamination myself?
Because sewage is classified as Category 3 contaminated water, professional cleanup is strongly recommended.
What materials must be removed after a sewage backup?
Carpet, drywall, insulation, and other porous materials must usually be removed if contaminated.
How long does sewage cleanup take?
Cleanup time depends on the extent of contamination but typically ranges from one to several days.
Will insurance cover sewage backup cleanup?
Some homeowners' insurance policies cover sewer backups if the policy includes a sewer backup endorsement.
