Emergency Sewer Line Repairs: What to Do When You Have a Sewer Backup

A sewer backup is one of the most frustrating and damaging issues a homeowner can face. Not only does it create a mess, but it can also lead to significant property damage, pose health hazards, and require costly repairs. Sewer backups can happen without warning, which is why understanding the signs and knowing how to respond quickly is essential.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps you should take when you experience a sewer backup, what could be causing the problem, and why emergency sewer line repairs are crucial for minimizing damage and costs. If you're in Northern New Jersey, including Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, or Union Counties, our team at NJ Sewer Check is ready to provide fast, reliable sewer line repair services when you need them most.

What Causes Sewer Backups?

Before jumping into the steps you should take during a sewer backup, it's essential to understand what typically causes these issues. There are several common reasons why sewer lines get backed up, including:

1. Tree Root Intrusion: Tree roots often invade sewer lines, searching for moisture. Over time, these roots can grow and block or break the pipes, leading to blockages.
   
2. Clogs: A clog in your home's plumbing system—especially from items like grease, wipes, or non-flushable materials—can block the flow of wastewater and cause a backup.
   
3. Pipe Damage or Collapse: Sewer lines can crack, collapse, or shift due to age, shifting soil, or external pressure. When this happens, the flow of sewage is disrupted, resulting in a backup.
   
4. Heavy Rain or Flooding: In areas with aging infrastructure, heavy rainfall can overwhelm municipal sewer systems, causing sewage to back up into homes.
   
5. Blockages in the Municipal Sewer System: Sometimes, the problem isn’t in your home at all—it’s in the city’s main sewer line. In this case, backups can occur when water and waste have no place to go.
   

Knowing what might have caused the backup is essential for determining the right course of action for sewer line repairs.

​Steps to Take During a Sewer Backup

If you’re dealing with a sewer backup, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent further damage to your home and protect the health of your family. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Stop Water Usage ImmediatelyOne of the first things you should do when you notice a sewer backup is to stop using water throughout the house. Any running water, including from sinks, toilets, and appliances like dishwashers or washing machines, will add more pressure to the sewer line, worsening the backup.

2. Stay Away from the Contaminated Area
Sewer backups involve wastewater, which is filled with harmful bacteria, viruses, and contaminants that can cause serious health issues. If sewage water is present in your home, avoid the affected areas to reduce exposure. Don’t attempt to clean up sewage on your own, as doing so without proper safety gear can be hazardous.
3. Call a Professional for Emergency Sewer RepairsAfter turning off the water and keeping clear of the contaminated area, it’s time to call a professional plumbing service that specializes in emergency sewer repairs. At NJ Sewer Check, we offer 24/7 emergency services for homeowners in Northern NJ. Our team of experts will arrive promptly, assess the situation, and begin the repair process immediately.

• Sewer Camera Inspections: We’ll use state-of-the-art camera technology to inspect your sewer line, identify the cause of the backup, and locate any blockages or damage.
• Sewer Cleaning: If the backup is caused by a blockage, we’ll use techniques such as hydro jetting or snaking to clear the obstruction and restore normal flow.
• Sewer Line Repair: If the issue is more serious, such as a cracked or collapsed pipe, we’ll perform the necessary sewer line repairs or replacement to prevent further problems.

4. Document the DamageWhile waiting for the professionals to arrive, take photos or videos of the affected areas. This documentation can be helpful for filing a claim with your homeowner’s insurance if the sewer backup caused significant damage to your property.

5. Notify Your Homeowner’s Insurance Provider
Sewer backups can lead to significant damage that might be covered under certain types of homeowner’s insurance policies. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the incident and discuss the next steps for filing a claim. Keep in mind that not all policies include coverage for sewer backups, so it’s worth reviewing your plan or considering adding an endorsement if you live in an area prone to sewer issues.

Why You Should Never Ignore a Sewer Backup

While it may be tempting to ignore the problem or try to fix it yourself, a sewer backup requires immediate professional attention. Here’s why you should never ignore this issue:

1. Health Risks: Sewer water contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and chemicals that can cause serious health problems. Direct exposure or contact with contaminated water can result in infections, respiratory issues, and other illnesses.
   
2. Property Damage: The longer the sewage sits, the more damage it can do to your property. Flooring, drywall, and furniture can all be ruined by contaminated water, and the cost of restoration can be substantial.
   
3. Mold Growth: In the aftermath of a sewer backup, mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 hours, especially in damp areas like basements. Mold poses a health risk and can spread quickly if not addressed immediately.
   

How Emergency Sewer Line Repairs Save You Money

When a sewer backup occurs, it can lead to thousands of dollars in property damage and remediation costs. However, timely sewer line repairs can help mitigate the damage and save you money in the long run. Here’s how:

1. Preventing Further Damage: Addressing the issue quickly with sewer camera inspections and cleaning can prevent blockages from causing extensive damage to your pipes and property.
   
2. Avoiding Future Backups: Once the cause of the backup is identified and repaired, regular maintenance and sewer scoping services can help prevent the problem from recurring, saving you from future emergency costs.
   
3. Extending the Life of Your Sewer Line: Regular inspections and repairs extend the lifespan of your sewer system, delaying the need for expensive sewer line replacements.