Choosing a sewage backup cleanup service

Tell the provider that sewage may be involved

Do not describe a suspected sewage backup simply as water on the floor. Tell the provider what backed up, where it appeared and which rooms may be affected. EPA advises using a professional experienced in contaminated-water building damage when sewage or other contaminated water is involved. Avoid contact with the affected area while obtaining qualified help.

Ask about relevant experience

Ask whether the business regularly handles sewage-related building cleanup and who will supervise the assessment. Request an explanation of the process in language you understand. A general carpet-cleaning offer or a promise to remove water does not explain the full scope proposed for your situation.

Separate cleanup from the plumbing repair

Ask who will identify and correct the source of the backup. The business cleaning affected rooms may not be the same business repairing a drain or plumbing defect. Confirm who coordinates the work, who authorizes each stage and whether separate estimates or appointments are needed.

• Who is responsible for the source investigation?
• Which areas are included in the cleanup assessment?
• Who explains decisions about affected belongings and materials?
• Which tasks or trades are excluded from the quote?

Get decisions and charges in writing

Ask for the proposed scope, included visits and the basis for charges. If materials or belongings may be removed, ask how the decision will be explained and documented. Clarify who can approve a change, especially in a rented property or shared building. Keep a copy of every authorization.

Confirm the handover

Before work starts, ask what records will be supplied and what follow-up is included. Request the contact details for questions after the job. This website cannot assess contamination, recommend a site-specific cleanup method or guarantee a contractor’s work; obtain those answers from the qualified provider you hire.

Questions you may have