Right now
- 1
Stop all water use
No flushing, showers, dishwasher or laundry until the line is cleared.
- 2
Keep people away
Especially children, older relatives, anyone with a weak immune system, and pets.
- 3
Check the cleanout
If you can find your outdoor sewer cleanout, see whether it is full. That points to where the blockage is.
- 4
Make the right call
For a city main problem, call Richardson's 24/7 line at 972-744-4111. For your own line, a plumber. For the cleanup, a restoration contractor.
Why sewage needs professional cleanup
Sewage is Category 3 water. It carries bacteria and viruses, and anything porous it soaks, like carpet, pad, upholstery and the bottom of drywall, is usually removed and bagged rather than cleaned. Hard surfaces are cleaned and disinfected, and the area is dried and checked before rebuilding.
Household bleach and a mop do not reach what has soaked into the slab joints, baseboards and wall cavities. A trained crew works with protective equipment and contains the area so it does not spread through the house.
Sewage emergency questions
Answered 24/7 · No obligation
Sewage coming up a drain?
Stop using water, then call. Answered 24/7.
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