Sewage Backup Cleanup in Colorado Springs

Sewage backup is Category 3 water under the IICRC S500 standard: it carries bacteria and pathogens, so porous materials it touched are removed, not dried. Keep people and pets out, do not handle it yourself, and call (719) 576-7465 to be connected with an independent Colorado Springs contractor equipped for containment, disinfection and disposal.

Why sewage is handled differently

Clean supply-line water can be dried in place. Sewage cannot, because bacteria move into every porous material they contact. Carpet, pad, insulation and drywall that touched Category 3 water are cut out and bagged, then the remaining structure is cleaned and disinfected before any drying starts.

Contractors work in protective gear with containment barriers so the contamination does not travel through the house. Air filtration with HEPA scrubbers runs during removal.

The cleanup sequence

1. Contain the affected area and set up protective gear and ventilation.
2. Remove standing sewage and porous contaminated materials.
3. Clean hard surfaces and framing, then apply EPA-registered disinfectant.
4. Run HEPA air filtration, then dry the remaining structure.
5. Document the work with photos and a materials list for the insurer.

Where a backup comes from

• A blocked or damaged sewer lateral on your property
• A main-line problem. Report it to Colorado Springs Utilities so the line can be checked
• Roots, collapsed pipe or grease buildup in an older line
• Heavy rain overwhelming drains in low basements

Insurance and the utility

Standard homeowners policies usually exclude sewer and drain backup unless a backup endorsement was added. Check your declarations page. If the backup came from the public main rather than your own line, the utility has a claims process, so call them before authorizing demolition and keep the photos. Our FAQ explains what to do if sewage backs up through your drains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I clean up a small sewage spill myself?

Health agencies advise against it. Sewage carries pathogens, and porous materials need removal, not wiping. Read how dangerous sewage backup is.

Is it safe to stay in the house?

Stay out of the affected area and keep children and pets away. Ask the contractor whether other rooms are safe once containment is up.

Who pays for sewer line repair?

The property owner is generally responsible for the lateral from the house to the connection. A plumber or sewer contractor handles the repair, separate from the cleanup.

Related

• Flood and basement cleanup
• Sewage backup steps
• Insurance claim help