The short answer
Why Leaving Is Safer
Sewage backup is not like a simple water spill. It carries pathogens that can cause illness if you touch contaminated surfaces or breathe in airborne particles. Even a small cleanup can stir up dust and droplets, which makes the area unsafe for everyday living.
The longer you stay, the more you risk tracking contamination to clean parts of your home. Shoes, clothing, and skin can carry germs. Leaving the affected rooms, or the whole house in serious cases, reduces that risk. If you must stay, seal off the contaminated area and keep doors closed.
When You Might Stay
If the sewage backup is very small and confined to a hard surface like a toilet base, you might be able to stay in other rooms. But you still need to avoid the affected spot and ventilate the area. Open windows and use fans to pull fresh air through, but do not touch anything that has been in contact with sewage.
Your decision should depend on how much area is affected, how long the sewage has been sitting, and whether porous items like carpet or drywall are soaked. If you have any doubt, err on the side of leaving. The pros can assess the situation and tell you when it is safe to return.
Health Risks to Know
Sewage exposure can lead to stomach illness, skin infections, or respiratory problems. Symptoms might not appear right away, so it is wise to avoid contact altogether. If you feel unwell after any exposure, see a doctor and mention the sewage incident.
People with asthma, weakened immune systems, or chronic conditions face higher risks. Children and pets are also more vulnerable because they are closer to the ground and may touch contaminated surfaces. Keep them away from the affected area until cleanup is complete and surfaces are dry.
- Wash hands with soap and clean water after any contact
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke near the affected area
- Wear rubber boots and gloves if you must enter
- Use a mask that covers your nose and mouth
- Change and wash clothes separately after entering
- Keep children and pets out of the contaminated zone
What Cleanup Involves
Cleaning up sewage is a thorough process that involves removing contaminated materials, cleaning surfaces with special disinfectants, and drying the area completely. Porous items like drywall, carpet, and padding usually need to be thrown away because they cannot be safely cleaned.
The pros use equipment to extract water, dry the space, and apply treatments that kill germs. This work can take hours or days, depending on the size of the backup. You may need to stay elsewhere until the area is dry and safe to occupy again.
If the sewage has affected your heating or cooling system, the ducts may need cleaning too. That can extend the time you are away. Your local water damage pros can give you a realistic timeline once they see the damage.
Planning Your Next Steps
Before the cleanup starts, pack a bag with essentials like clothes, toiletries, and any daily supplies you need. If you have pets, make arrangements for them as well. Knowing where you will stay, whether with family or at a hotel, helps you focus on the cleanup process.
Check your home insurance policy to see what your coverage includes. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Keep receipts for any temporary housing costs, as they may be part of your claim. If you live in Daytona Beach, keep your shutoff valve location written down for future reference.
- Pack a go-bag with necessities
- Arrange pet care
- Save receipts for temporary lodging
- Review your insurance policy details
- Ask the pros about safety guidelines before returning
Need help right now?
Call (386) 272-5697 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
How long do I need to stay out of my home?
It depends on the extent of the backup and how long it takes to dry everything. Small spills might be safe in a day, but larger ones can take several days. The pros can assess and give you a timeframe based on your specific situation.
Can I clean up small sewage spills myself?
For very small, contained spills on hard surfaces, you might try cleaning with a strong disinfectant. But sewage is risky, and any porous material should be thrown away. If you feel unsure or the area is large, call the pros to handle it safely.
What should I do with items that touched sewage?
Items that cannot be washed in hot water or disinfected should be discarded. Porous things like mattresses, pillows, and upholstered furniture usually cannot be saved. For valuable items, check with a professional about cleaning options, but safety comes first.